All Flashcards
What is wave-particle duality?
The concept that all matter exhibits both wave-like and particle-like properties.
Define the Compton effect.
The scattering of a photon by a charged particle, usually an electron, resulting in a decrease in energy (increase in wavelength) of the photon.
What is the de Broglie wavelength?
The wavelength associated with a moving particle, given by the equation , where h is Planck's constant, m is mass, and v is velocity.
Define relativistic mass-energy equivalence.
The concept that mass and energy are interchangeable, described by the equation .
What is interference in the context of waves?
The superposition of two or more waves resulting in a new wave pattern.
What is diffraction?
The bending of waves around obstacles or through small openings.
What is the effect of increasing a particle's velocity on its de Broglie wavelength?
The de Broglie wavelength decreases.
What is the effect of increasing a photon's energy on its momentum?
The photon's momentum increases.
What happens when a photon scatters off an electron in the Compton Effect?
The photon loses energy (increases in wavelength) and changes direction, while the electron gains kinetic energy.
What happens to the mass of an object as its velocity increases, according to relativistic mass-energy equivalence?
Its mass increases.
What is the effect of passing waves through a narrow opening?
The waves diffract, spreading out as they pass through the opening.
How do you calculate the de Broglie wavelength?
- Determine the momentum (p) of the particle. 2. Use the formula , where h is Planck's constant.
What are the steps to calculate the de Broglie wavelength of an electron accelerated through a potential difference?
- Find the kinetic energy (K) using . 2. Calculate the momentum using . 3. Calculate the de Broglie wavelength using .