Questions: In Compton Scattering, the fate of the photon is best described by which of the following: Some of the energy of the photon is transferred and it continues in a different direction with less energy All the energy is transferred to the electron, the photon no longer exists All of the energy is absorbed by the nucleus, then subatomic particle(s) are emitted All of the energy of the photon is absorbed and converted to matter
Transcript text: In Compton Scattering, the fate of the photon is best described by which of the following:
Some of the energy of the photon is transferred and it continues in a different direction with less energy
All the energy is transferred to the electron, the photon no longer exists
All of the energy is absorbed by the nucleus, then subatomic particle(s) are emitted
All of the energy of the photon is absorbed and converted to matter
Solution
Solution Steps
Step 1: Understanding Compton Scattering
Compton Scattering is a phenomenon where a photon collides with a target particle, typically an electron, resulting in a transfer of energy and momentum. The photon is deflected from its original path and continues with reduced energy, while the electron gains energy and is ejected from its position.
Step 2: Analyzing the Options
Some of the energy of the photon is transferred and it continues in a different direction with less energy: This option accurately describes Compton Scattering, where the photon loses some energy and changes direction.
All the energy is transferred to the electron, the photon no longer exists: This describes a different process, not Compton Scattering, as the photon still exists after the interaction.
All of the energy is absorbed by the nucleus, then subatomic particle(s) are emitted: This is not related to Compton Scattering, which involves electrons, not the nucleus.
All of the energy of the photon is absorbed and converted to matter: This describes pair production, not Compton Scattering.
Final Answer
The fate of the photon in Compton Scattering is best described by the first option:
\[
\boxed{\text{Some of the energy of the photon is transferred and it continues in a different direction with less energy}}
\]