X-Ray Spectra and Photon Energy

In summary, we use the equation for photon energy to calculate the final speed of an electron that slows down on being deflected by a nucleus in an x-ray tube. Using the relativistic equations for energy and momentum, we find that the final speed is 2.27x108 m/s, slightly different from the initial speed of 2.35x108 m/s. This discrepancy may be due to ignoring the nuclear recoil and not accounting for relativity.
  • #1
kachilous
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0

Homework Statement


In a particluar x-ray tube, an electron approaches the target moving at 2.35 108 m/s. It slows down on being deflected by a nucleus of the target, emitting a photon of energy 40 keV. Ignoring the nuclear recoil, but not relativity, compute the final speed of the electron.

Homework Equations


Equation for photon Energy: Ephoton = Ei - Ef


The Attempt at a Solution


Ephoton = Ei - Ef

Using the emitted photon energy as the change in energy (40 KeV = 6.409x10-15 Joules)
and the relativistic equations for energy: E = pc = mevc.
We have: 6.409x10-15 = mec(vi - vf)
Where mec = (9.109-31)(3x108)
Then we have: 2.345x107 = vi - vf
We can use 2.35x108 as the electron's initial velocity:
so vf = 2.35 108 - 2.345x107 = 2.1155x108.
However, the answer is 2.27x108. So I am off by a small amount.

What am I doing wrong?
 
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  • #2
Try the relativistic formulation of momentum

p = [itex]\gamma[/itex]mov
where
[itex]\gamma=\frac{1}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^{2}}{c^{2}}}}[/itex]
 
Last edited:

1. What is an X-ray spectrum?

An X-ray spectrum is a graph or plot that shows the intensity of X-rays emitted at different energies. It is used to study the energy levels and properties of atoms and molecules.

2. How is X-ray spectrum produced?

X-ray spectrum is produced when a high-energy electron beam strikes a metal target, causing the electrons in the target to emit X-rays of different energies.

3. What determines the energy of an X-ray photon?

The energy of an X-ray photon is determined by the energy levels of the electrons in the target material. When an electron transitions from a higher energy level to a lower one, it emits a photon with energy equal to the difference between the two levels.

4. What are the applications of X-ray spectra?

X-ray spectra are used in various scientific fields, including materials science, chemistry, and medicine. They can be used to identify elements present in a sample, study atomic structures, and diagnose medical conditions.

5. How can X-ray spectra help us understand the universe?

X-ray spectra can provide valuable information about the composition and properties of celestial objects, such as stars and galaxies. They can also help us understand processes such as nuclear fusion and the formation of black holes.

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