Solving Mechanics Problem: Find Direction & Momentum of Recoiling Nucleus

  • Thread starter neelakash
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In summary, a nucleus undergoing spontaneous radioactive decay emits an electron and a neutrino in opposite directions. The electron has a momentum of 1.73 MeV/c and the neutrino has a momentum of 1 MeV/c. The direction and momentum of the recoiling nucleus can be determined using momentum conservation, and whether to use relativistic or classical equations depends on the accuracy required for the calculation.
  • #1
neelakash
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Homework Statement



A nucleus at rest undergoes spontaneous radioactive decayby emitting an electron of momentum 1.73 MeV/c and at right angle to to the direction of electron, a neutrino of momentum 1 MeV/c.Find the direction and momentum of the recoiling nucleus.
Here c is the velocity of light.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I CAN do this...but I am wondering if we are to employ the relativistic momentum concept...
Can anyone clarify?
 
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  • #2
If the momenta given in the question have been accurately determined, you don't even have to bother about whether you should use relativistic or classical equations. Both would turn up the same answer, since we make use of only momentum conservation. Now if the question were to do with something like velocity of recoil, for accuracy you should use relativistic calculations.
 
  • #3
I see...
Thank you.
 

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