In Compton scattering from stationary electrons the largest change in wavelength that can occur is: A) 2.43*10^-¹⁵ m B) 2.43 *10^-¹² m C) 2.43 * 10^-⁹ m D) dependent on the frequency of the incident light E) dependent on the work function

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The maximum change in wavelength in Compton scattering is given by the formula Δλ = (h/mec)(1-cosθ), where h is Planck's constant, me is the electron mass, c is the speed of light, and θ is the scattering angle. When the electron is stationary (i.e. θ = 180°), the formula simplifies to Δλmax = (h/mec)(1+cosθmax) = 2(h/mec) = 2.43×10⁻¹² m. Choice B is the closest option to this value. Choices A and C are too far off, and choices D and E are irrelevant to the question.

In Compton Scattering from Stationary Electrons the Largest Change in Wavelength