De Broglie Wavelength: Should Electron Have Same Rest Energy?

In summary, when deriving the De-Broglie wavelength, we equate mc^2 to hf for particles with rest energy, but for electrons, we use the classical way of obtaining speed and momentum. According to Richard Fitzpatrick's quantum mechanics book, the usual value for the electron's wavelength is determined by λe = 1.2 × 10−9 [E(eV)]−1/2m. However, when calculating the De-Broglie wavelength, we use the electron's Compton wavelength, λ = ħ/mc. This raises the question of the difference between Compton and De Broglie wavelengths.
  • #1
moatasim23
78
0
While deriving De-Broglie wavelength we equate mc^2 to hf and then for electron we change c to v but as far I know mc^2 is rest energy then how could c be converted into v for electron.Shouldnt it have the same rest energy?
 
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  • #2
Hello moatasim23, The De-Broglie wavelength is not determined that way. You should use the electron kinetic energy and the electron mass in order to obtain the speed in the classical way and the momentum.

In Richard Fitzpatrick quantum mechanics book it's told that a usual value for the electron's wave length is: λe = 1.2 × 10−9 [E(eV)]−1/2m.
 
  • #3
While deriving De-Broglie wavelength we equate mc^2 to hf
This gives you the electron's Compton wavelength, λ = ħ/mc.
 
  • #4
What is the difference between Comptoms and De Broglie Wavelength?
 

Related to De Broglie Wavelength: Should Electron Have Same Rest Energy?

1. What is the De Broglie wavelength?

The De Broglie wavelength is a concept in quantum mechanics proposed by French physicist Louis de Broglie in 1924. It describes the wavelength of a particle, such as an electron, in motion.

2. How is the De Broglie wavelength calculated?

The De Broglie wavelength is calculated using the following formula: λ = h/mv, where λ is the wavelength, h is Planck's constant, m is the mass of the particle, and v is its velocity.

3. Why is the De Broglie wavelength important?

The De Broglie wavelength is important because it helps to explain the wave-particle duality of matter. It shows that particles, such as electrons, can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like behavior.

4. Should electrons have the same De Broglie wavelength as their rest energy?

According to the De Broglie hypothesis, all particles have a wavelength associated with them, including electrons. However, the De Broglie wavelength is inversely proportional to the mass of the particle, so the wavelength of an electron would be much smaller than that of a larger particle with the same rest energy.

5. How does the De Broglie wavelength relate to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle?

The Heisenberg uncertainty principle states that it is impossible to know both the exact position and exact momentum of a particle at the same time. The De Broglie wavelength is related to this principle because it describes the uncertainty in the position of a particle due to its wave-like nature.

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