What is the Wavelength of the Scattered Photon in a Collision?

In summary, the conversation is about a physics example involving a free electron and a photon collision. The question is to find the wavelength of the scattered photon when the electron acquires maximum energy. The person is having trouble understanding the concept of "lambda prime" and is seeking help. The hint given is to consider the direction of the photon and electron in the collision. Eventually, the person understands and thanks the others for their help.
  • #1
Damascus Road
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0
Hey all,

A physics example I'm working on to do some studying. The example is as follows:

What is the wavelength of the scattered photon when a free electron (initially stationary) acquires maximum energy in a collision with a photon of energy 4 x 10^3 eV?

My problem is this: it seems anything I do only deals with the photon of energy 4 x 10^3 eV. i.e. I can find the frequency using the relation E=hf and then lambda using lambda = c/f, but none of that relates to " lambda prime". Help?

Thanks in advance.
 
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  • #2
to add... I have a feeling that the electron acquires "maximum energy" means something, that I am not picking up...
 
  • #3
This looks like a Compton scattering problem. Hint: In a collision that delivers the maximum possible KE to the electron, in what direction would you expect the photon to emerge (and which direction does the electron recoil)?
 
  • #4
got it, thanks!
 

FAQ: What is the Wavelength of the Scattered Photon in a Collision?

What is "wavelength from collision"?

Wavelength from collision refers to the measurement of the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs of a wave resulting from a collision between two objects.

How is the wavelength from collision calculated?

The wavelength from collision is calculated by dividing the speed of the wave by its frequency. This can be represented by the formula: λ = v/f, where λ is the wavelength, v is the speed, and f is the frequency.

What factors affect the wavelength from collision?

The wavelength from collision can be affected by the speed and frequency of the wave, as well as the mass and velocity of the objects involved in the collision. Additionally, the medium through which the wave is traveling can also impact the wavelength.

What is the relationship between wavelength and collision?

The wavelength and collision are directly related, as the wavelength is determined by the distance between two objects that have collided. The greater the collision, the longer the wavelength will be.

Why is understanding wavelength from collision important in science?

Understanding wavelength from collision is crucial in various fields of science, including physics, chemistry, and astronomy. It allows scientists to accurately measure and predict the behavior of waves, which are present in many natural phenomena and human-made technologies.

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