Find Wavelength of Photons & Electrons as Function of Kinetic Energy

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In summary, to find the wavelength as a function of kinetic energy for photons, you can use the equation λ=c*h/E. For electrons, you can use pc=\sqrt{E^2-m^2c^4} and substitute T=KE=E-mc^2. T is a standard notation for kinetic energy.
  • #1
prochatz
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1)How can I find the wavelength as a function of the kinetic energy i)for photons, ii)for electrons?

i)For photons.
I think that I found it. I used the relation: E^2=c^2*p^2+(mc^2)^2
The photon's rest mass is 0. So we get: E=c*p
p=E/c ---> p=h*v/c --->p=h/λ
Finally: λ=c*h/E

ii)For electrons.
I don't know what to do. Do I have to use the same equations?
 
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  • #2
For the electron use pc=\sqrt{E^2-m^2c^4}, and then substiltute
T=KE=E-mc^2, so E=T+mc^2.
 
  • #3
Meir Achuz said:
For the electron use pc=\sqrt{E^2-m^2c^4}, and then substiltute
T=KE=E-mc^2, so E=T+mc^2.

I assume K is the kinetic energy, but what's T?:confused:
 
  • #4
KE=kinetic energy, T is standard notation for it too.
 
  • #5
prochatz said:
I assume K is the kinetic energy, but what's T?:confused:

Never mind, got it :smile:
 
  • #6
inha said:
KE=kinetic energy, T is standard notation for it too.

Thanks INHA.
 

FAQ: Find Wavelength of Photons & Electrons as Function of Kinetic Energy

How is the wavelength of photons and electrons determined?

The wavelength of photons and electrons can be determined using the de Broglie wavelength equation: λ = h/mv, where λ is the wavelength, h is Planck's constant, m is the mass of the particle, and v is the velocity of the particle.

What is the relationship between kinetic energy and wavelength of photons and electrons?

The wavelength of photons and electrons is inversely proportional to their kinetic energy. This means that as the kinetic energy increases, the wavelength decreases, and vice versa.

Can the wavelength of photons and electrons be calculated for any given kinetic energy?

Yes, the de Broglie wavelength equation can be used to calculate the wavelength for any given kinetic energy. However, it is important to note that this equation is only applicable to particles with non-relativistic speeds.

How does the wavelength of photons and electrons change as the kinetic energy increases?

As the kinetic energy of photons and electrons increases, their wavelength decreases. This is because as the particles gain more energy, their velocity increases, and according to the de Broglie wavelength equation, a higher velocity results in a shorter wavelength.

Can the wavelength of photons and electrons be measured experimentally?

Yes, the wavelength of photons and electrons can be measured experimentally using various techniques such as diffraction, interference, and photoelectric effect. These experiments provide evidence for the wave-particle duality of particles and the relationship between their wavelength and kinetic energy.

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