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Modern Physics
Modern Physics

Compton Scattering

λ′−λ=hmec(1−cos⁡θ)\lambda' - \lambda = \frac{h}{m_e c}(1 - \cos\theta)

Wavelength shift of photons scattered by electrons. Confirms particle nature of light.

Variables

\Delta \lambda
Wavelength shift
m
\lambda'
Scattered wavelength
m
\lambda
Incident wavelength
m
h
Planck constant
J·s
m_e
Electron mass
kg
c
Speed of light
m/s
\theta
Scattering angle
°

Derivation

Derived by treating collision as relativistic particle interaction.

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Common questions

What is the Compton Scattering formula?

Compton Scattering is written λ' - λ= h/mₑ c(1 - cosθ). Wavelength shift of photons scattered by electrons. Confirms particle nature of light. It belongs to Modern Physics, under Quantum Mechanics.

What are the units in λ' - λ= h/mₑ c(1 - cosθ)?

In SI units, \Delta \lambda is wavelength shift, measured in m; \lambda' is scattered wavelength, measured in m; \lambda is incident wavelength, measured in m; h is planck constant, measured in J·s; m_e is electron mass, measured in kg; c is speed of light, measured in m/s; \theta is scattering angle, measured in °.

How is the Compton Scattering formula derived?

Derived by treating collision as relativistic particle interaction. The result is λ' - λ= h/mₑ c(1 - cosθ).