What is the Wavelength of Neutrons at Room Temperature?

In summary, we have discussed the concept of eV as a unit of energy and how it relates to MKS units. We have also explored the use of Planck's constant in terms of eV and how it can be used to calculate the wavelength of particles. Finally, we have addressed the question of how to apply the De Broglie hypothesis to particles with mass.
  • #1
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Hey, this is my first week in Quantum class, going pretty well so far.

My first questoin is:

1.) What is an eV a Unit of...give it in terms of MKS

Well my answer is that it is a unit of energy, and for MKS...

1 Electron*Volt = Joules

1 electron has a charge of 1.602*10^-19 C

1 Volt = 1 J/C

Therefore

1.602*10^-19*1 means that

1 eV = 1.602*10^-19 J

Is this correct reasoning?

My next Question

Neutrons at room Temperature have a kinetic energy of around .02 eV. What is their wavelength?

KE = 0.2 eV

0.2 eV = q*V

p = h/lambda

1 eV = 1.609*10^-19 J

h = 6.626*10^-34 J*s * 1 ev/(1.609*10^-19 J)

Therefore I get Planck's constant in terms of eV

h = 4.136*10^-15 eV*s

But how do I use the 0.2 eV in terms of the p = h/lambda?

Thanks for any assistance!
 
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  • #2
For the second part i can think of no other way but to get the velocity of the neutrons from the kinetic energy using

[tex] K = m_{n}c^2(\gamma -1) [/tex] and then use the De Broglie Hypothesis about wavelength

[tex] \lambda = \frac{h}{mv} [/tex]

and [tex] \gamma = \frac{1}{\sqrt{1-\frac{v^2}{c^2}}} [/tex]
 
  • #3
[tex] E = \frac{ \hbar c} {\lambda} [/tex]
 
  • #4
Thanks! But I'm looking at my notes, and it says that the equation applies only to massless particles?
 
  • #5
[tex] E^{2} = p^{2}c^{2} + m_{0} ^{2} c^{4} [/tex] is the expression for particles with mass.
 
  • #6
1.NEUTRONS HAVE REST MASS.

2.U don't need the relativistic formula.
[tex] \lambda=\frac{h}{p}=\frac{h}{\sqrt{2mE}} [/tex]

Daniel.
 

FAQ: What is the Wavelength of Neutrons at Room Temperature?

1.

What is the concept of quantum mechanics?

Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics that studies the behavior of particles at a subatomic level. It explains how particles such as atoms and subatomic particles behave and interact with each other.

2.

What is the difference between classical and quantum mechanics?

Classical mechanics is based on Newton's laws of motion and describes the behavior of objects at a macroscopic level. Quantum mechanics, on the other hand, explains the behavior of particles at a microscopic level and is governed by the principles of uncertainty and superposition.

3.

What is the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics?

The uncertainty principle states that it is impossible to know with certainty both the position and momentum of a particle at the same time. This is due to the inherent probabilistic nature of subatomic particles.

4.

What is superposition in quantum mechanics?

Superposition is a principle in quantum mechanics that states that a particle can exist in multiple states or positions simultaneously until it is measured or observed. This is a fundamental concept in quantum computing and other quantum technologies.

5.

How is quantum mechanics applied in technology?

Quantum mechanics has many practical applications in technology, such as in quantum computing, cryptography, and sensors. It also helps to understand and improve technologies such as lasers, transistors, and medical imaging devices.

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