Energy of a proton using de broglie formula

VIn summary, the conversation was about finding the energy of a proton with a de broglie wavelength of 40 pm in electron volts. The formula discussed was E = p^2/2m, where p = h/λ and the values for h and m were given. The final answer was determined to be 0.51 eV.
  • #1
curiouschris
147
0
I am trying to help my son in his year 12 physics. I know very little of this
can someone please assist.

find in eV (electron volts) the energy of a proton with a de broglie wavelength of 40 pm (picometres)

What would the correct formula be ?

A good chance for me to learn as well ;)


CC
 
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  • #2
Wave length λ = h/p or

p = h/λ.

And energy E = p^2/2m.
 
  • #3
Thanks but I am obviously still way off beam
(my Sons gone to bed but I am trying this on my own)

de brognie wave length = 4x10^-11
plancks constant = 6.63x10^-34
mass of proton = 1.673x10^-27

first part

p= h/λ
.: p = (6.63x10^-34)/(4 x 10^-11)
.: p = 1.6575x10^-23

2nd part
E = p^2/2m
.: E = (1.6575x10^-23)^2/(2*1.673x10^-27)
.: E = 2.747x10^-46/3.46x10^-27
.: E = 8.2x10^-20

The answer should be E =0.51eV

So what did I do wrong :(

CC
 
  • #4
E = 8.2x10^-20 J.

To convert it into eV, divide it by 1.6x10^-19.
 
  • #5
So from this I gather E = Energy in Joules?
 
  • #6
Energy in eV = 8.2x10^-20/1.6x10^-19
 

Related to Energy of a proton using de broglie formula

What is the De Broglie formula for calculating the energy of a proton?

The De Broglie formula for calculating the energy of a proton is E = hc/λ, where E is the energy, h is Planck's constant, c is the speed of light, and λ is the wavelength of the proton.

How does the De Broglie formula relate to the wave-particle duality of a proton?

The De Broglie formula is a key component of the wave-particle duality of a proton. It shows that protons, which are typically considered to be particles, also have wave-like properties. This formula allows us to calculate the wavelength and energy of a proton as if it were a wave.

What is the significance of the De Broglie wavelength for a proton?

The De Broglie wavelength of a proton is significant because it helps us understand the behavior of protons at the atomic level. It allows us to think of protons not just as tiny particles, but also as waves with specific wavelengths and energies. This helps us better understand phenomena such as quantum tunneling and diffraction.

Can the De Broglie formula be applied to other particles besides protons?

Yes, the De Broglie formula can be applied to any particle with mass, including electrons, neutrons, and even larger particles like atoms and molecules. It is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics and is used to study the behavior of all types of particles.

How is the De Broglie formula used in practical applications?

The De Broglie formula has many practical applications, particularly in fields such as particle physics and quantum mechanics. It is used to study the behavior of particles in particle accelerators, to understand the properties of materials at the atomic level, and to develop new technologies such as electron microscopy and quantum computing.

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