Finding the Kinetic Energy of Compton Scattering

In summary, the question involves x-ray photons of wavelength 0.02480 nm being scattered at 90 degrees and the subsequent measurements of the scattered photons' wavelength, momentum, kinetic energy, and direction and magnitude of the scattered electrons. The solution uses equations for energy and momentum, and the correct calculations lead to a final value of approximately 3.614e-23 for the momentum of the scattered electrons.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


X-ray photons of wavelength 0.02480 nm are incident on a target and the compton-scattered photons are observed at 90 degrees.(a) What is the wavelength of the scattered photons?(b) What is the momentum of the incident photon and scattered photon? (c) What is the kinetic energy of the scattered electrons?(d) what is the momentum (direction and magnitude) of the scattered electrons?


Homework Equations


1/E'-1/E = 1/mc^2(1-cos(theta))
E=pc


The Attempt at a Solution


(lamda)'/hc-(lamda)/hc = 1/mc^2(1-cos(90)) (where mc^2 equals .511)
the (lamda)'=hc/.511(1-cos(90))+.02480 = .2426e-11 nm
then for b. E=pc so p=E/c=h/(.02480)=2.67e-23 and p'=E'/c=h/(lamda)'=6.626e-34/2.46200e-21=2.69e-13.
c then is E=pc=8.01e-15 = Rest Energy and E'=p'c=(2.69e-13)(3e8)=8.07e-5
then K=E-rest energy = 8.07e-5-8.01e-15=8.07e-5. Finally d is P=sqrt(2.69e-23^2+2.67e-23)=7.3212e-12

Is any of this correct if not where did i go wrong I think my methods are correct I am not sure about my units?
 
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  • #2
ok I screwed up the first part should be .02722nm. P'=E/c = h/(lamda)' = (4.136e-15)/(2.722e-11)=.000151947 and P=E/c=h/(lamda)=(4.136e-15)/(2.480e-11)=.000166774. For part (c) E'=p'c=(.000151947)(3e8)=45584.1 and E=pc=(.00016674)(3e8)=50032.2. K = E-rest energy = 50032.2-45584.1=4448.1. (d) p=sqrt(.000166774^2+.000151947^2)=.000225
 
  • #3
Ok so once again I screwed up the first part should be .02722nm or 2.722e-11. then P'=E/c=h/(lamda)'=(6.626e-34)/(2.722e-11)=2.43423953e-23 and therefore p = E/c=h/(lamda)=(6.626e-34)/(2.480e-11)=2.671774194e-23. Which I then use to find the energies E'=p'c=7.302718589e-15 and E=pc=8.015322581e-15. Thus K=E'-(rest energy)= 7.302718589e-15-8.015322581e-15=-7.12603992e-16 which is IMPOSSIBLE coreect ugggg what did I do. p=sqrt(2.671774194e-23^2+2.43423953e-23^2)=3.614e-23
 

Related to Finding the Kinetic Energy of Compton Scattering

1. What is Compton scattering?

Compton scattering is a phenomenon in which a photon (an elementary particle of light) collides with an electron and loses energy, resulting in a change in its wavelength. This process was first described by physicist Arthur Compton in 1923.

2. How is kinetic energy related to Compton scattering?

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. In the case of Compton scattering, the kinetic energy of the electron changes as a result of the photon's loss of energy. This change in kinetic energy can be calculated and used to understand the scattering process.

3. What factors affect the kinetic energy of Compton scattering?

The kinetic energy of Compton scattering is affected by the energy of the incident photon, the angle of scattering, and the mass of the electron. These factors can be used to calculate the final kinetic energy of the scattered electron.

4. How is the kinetic energy of Compton scattering measured?

The kinetic energy of Compton scattering can be measured through various methods, such as using a spectrometer or detector to measure the energy of the scattered electron. Additionally, theoretical calculations can be used to determine the kinetic energy based on the known factors involved in the scattering process.

5. What are the practical applications of understanding the kinetic energy of Compton scattering?

Understanding the kinetic energy of Compton scattering is important in various fields, such as medical imaging, materials science, and astrophysics. It allows us to study the behavior of electrons and photons and gain insights into the properties of matter and energy. Additionally, it has practical applications in developing technologies such as X-ray imaging and radiation therapy.

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