If a beam of X-rays is scattered from protons instead of electrons, the change in the wavelength of this X-ray beam for a given angle of scattering decreases.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This statement is true based on the Compton scattering formula, which states that the change in wavelength of scattered X-rays is directly proportional to the mass of the scattering particle. Since protons have a higher mass than electrons, the change in wavelength of X-rays scattered from protons will be less for a given angle of scattering.

If a Beam of X-Rays Is Scattered from Protons Instead