How Does Compton Scattering Affect Photon Wavelength and Energy?

So the energy scattered at 110 degrees is the initial energy of 700 keV minus the change in wavelength. The energy of the scattered electron can be found by using conservation of energy and momentum. The recoil angle of the electron can be found by using conservation of energy and momentum.In summary, the conversation discusses two scenarios of compton-scattering involving photons and electrons, and the calculations involved in finding the change in wavelength, energy of the scattered photon and electron, and the recoil angle of the electron. The equations used are based on conservation of energy and momentum.
  • #1
KingNothing
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Homework Statement


48. If a 6.0 keV photon scatters from a free proton at rest, what is the change in the photon's wavelength if the photon recoils at 90 degrees?

52. A gamma ray of 700 keV energy compton-scatters from an electron. Find the energy of the photon scattered at 110 degrees, the energy of the scattered electron, and the recoil angle of the electron.

Homework Equations


[tex]\Delta\lambda=\frac{h}{mc}(1-cos(\theta))[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


48. Since the angle is 90 degrees, the change in wavelength should be one compton wavelength. I don't see where the energy of the photon comes into play.

52. Again, I don't see where the energy comes into play.
 
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  • #2
48. You are correct here. For the change in wavelength you don't need the energy of the photon.

52. To find the new energy you need the new wavelength which you cannot find merely from the change in wavelength. You need to add the change in wavelength to the initial wavelength which you get from the initial energy.
 

Related to How Does Compton Scattering Affect Photon Wavelength and Energy?

1. What is Compton scattering?

Compton scattering is a phenomenon that occurs when a photon interacts with a charged particle, resulting in a change in the photon's wavelength and direction of propagation.

2. How does Compton scattering help scientists?

Compton scattering is useful for scientists in studying the properties of matter, such as the structure and composition of materials. It is also used in medical imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) scans.

3. What is the difference between Compton scattering and other types of scattering?

Compton scattering differs from other types of scattering, such as Rayleigh and Thomson scattering, in that it involves the interaction of a photon with a free charged particle, whereas the others involve interactions with bound particles.

4. Can Compton scattering be observed in everyday life?

Yes, Compton scattering can be observed in everyday life. For example, the blue color of the sky is a result of Compton scattering of sunlight by the Earth's atmosphere.

5. Is Compton scattering related to the photoelectric effect?

Yes, Compton scattering and the photoelectric effect are both examples of how photons interact with matter. However, they involve different mechanisms and have different outcomes.

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