How to find the velocity of the protons and antiprotons?

In summary, some particle accelerators use a storage ring to allow protons and antiprotons to collide at equal speeds, resulting in p+ + p- yields e+ + e- + γ + γ. In one such collision, the ejected electron and positron have a speed of 0.9999995c and the gamma-ray photon has a wavelength of 1.0 X 10-6 nm. Using conservation of energy and the equations E=mc^2 - 0.5mu^2 and E=γmc^2, the speeds of the protons and antiprotons prior to the collision can be determined.
  • #1
yy205001
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Homework Statement



Some particle accelerators allow protons (p+) and antiprotons (p-) to circulate at equal speeds in opposite directions in a device called a storage ring. The particle beams cross each other at various points to cause p+ + p- collisions. In one collision, the outcome is p+ + p- yields e+ + e- + γ + γ, where γ represents a high energy gamma-ray photon. The electron and position are ejected from the collision at 0.9999995c and the gamma-ray photon wavelengths are found to be 1.0 X 10-6 nm. What were the proton and antiproton speeds prior to the collision?

m(e-)=9.11e-31(kg), λ(γ)=1e-6(nm)



Homework Equations


Ei = Ef
E=mc^2 - 0.5mu^2
E=γmc^2


The Attempt at a Solution


I have no ideas how to start and where to start in this question. Please help.
 
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  • #2
hi yy205001! :smile:

(try using the X2 button just above the Reply box :wink:)

conservation of energy?
 
  • #3
i don't know what does'' p+ + p- yields e+ + e- + γ + γ'' tell me?
 
  • #4
well, you know the mass of everything, and you know the wavelength of the photons, and the speed of the electrons
 
  • #5
but how can we get the mass of the gamma ray?
 
  • #6
the gamma ray is a photon, with zero mass :wink:
 
  • #7
oh! thank you=]
 

Related to How to find the velocity of the protons and antiprotons?

1. How do you measure the velocity of protons and antiprotons?

The velocity of protons and antiprotons can be measured using various techniques such as time-of-flight measurements, cyclotron resonance, and magnetic field deflection. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, and the choice of technique depends on the specific experiment and equipment available.

2. What factors affect the velocity of protons and antiprotons?

The velocity of protons and antiprotons can be affected by factors such as the electric and magnetic fields they are subjected to, the mass of the particles, and any interactions with other particles or fields. In addition, the velocity of particles can also be influenced by relativistic effects at high energies.

3. How do you account for the uncertainty in measuring the velocity of protons and antiprotons?

Like any measurement in science, there is always some degree of uncertainty in measuring the velocity of protons and antiprotons. This uncertainty can be minimized by using multiple techniques and performing repeated measurements. Additionally, statistical analysis can be used to estimate the uncertainty and report it with the measured value.

4. Can the velocity of protons and antiprotons be changed?

Yes, the velocity of protons and antiprotons can be changed by applying electric or magnetic fields, or by colliding them with other particles. In particle accelerators, the velocity of particles can be increased to very high speeds, close to the speed of light, for experiments and research purposes.

5. What is the significance of measuring the velocity of protons and antiprotons?

The measurement of the velocity of protons and antiprotons is important in understanding the properties and behavior of these particles, as well as their interactions with other particles and fields. It also provides valuable information for theoretical models and predictions in the field of particle physics.

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