What are the frequency and speed of a photon after scattering

In summary, when photons are scattered by free electrons at rest, the electrons gain kinetic energy while the frequency of the photons decreases. This is because the energy of a photon is inversely proportional to its frequency, and as the electrons gain energy, the photons lose energy. The speed of the photons remains constant. The correct answer to the given question is (C).
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Homework Statement


Photons incident upon free electrons that are essen- tially at rest are scattered by the electrons. As a consequence, the electrons gain kinetic energy. How do the frequency and speed of the photons present after the scattering compare to those present before the scattering?

Photon Frequency after scattering Photon Speed After scattering

(A) Lower Same
(B) Lower Less
(C) Same less
(D) Higher less
(E) Highe greater

Homework Equations


KE=hƒ-∅, where ∅ is the work function
Energy of a photon= hƒ= hc/λ, where c is the speed of light.

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Photons speed doesn’t change, c is always constant. And ƒ and KE are proportional, so as the electron gain KE the photon loses its KE and so frequency decreases. It’s written in the answer key C, so I want to check if I am correct.
 
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You are right. (A) is the correct answer.

Edit: We would not say that the photon has KE. It has electromagnetic energy. But I think you have the right idea.
 
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FAQ: What are the frequency and speed of a photon after scattering

What is the relationship between frequency and speed of a photon after scattering?

The frequency and speed of a photon after scattering are directly related. This means that as the frequency of a photon increases, its speed also increases. Conversely, as the frequency decreases, the speed decreases as well. This relationship is known as the wave-particle duality of light.

How does the frequency and speed of a photon change after scattering?

After scattering, the frequency of a photon remains the same, but its speed may change depending on the medium it is traveling through. In a vacuum, the speed of light is constant at approximately 3.00 x 10^8 meters per second. However, in a medium such as air or water, the speed of light decreases due to interactions with particles in the medium.

Can a photon's speed change without changing its frequency?

Yes, a photon's speed can change without changing its frequency. This can occur when a photon travels through different mediums, as the speed of light is dependent on the density and composition of the medium it is traveling through.

How is the speed of a photon measured?

The speed of a photon is typically measured using a variety of methods, including interferometry and time-of-flight techniques. These methods involve measuring the time it takes for a photon to travel a known distance and then calculating its speed using the equation speed = distance/time.

What factors can affect the frequency and speed of a photon after scattering?

The frequency and speed of a photon after scattering can be affected by several factors, including the composition and density of the medium it is traveling through, the angle of incidence, and the energy of the scattering particles. Additionally, the frequency and speed of a photon can also be influenced by the presence of gravitational or electromagnetic fields.

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