An X-ray generator produces photons with energy 49 600 eV or less.Which one of the following phrases most accurately describes the wavelength of these photons?
A)0.025 nm or longer
B)0.050 nm or longer
C)0.75 nm or longer
D)0.25 nm or shorter
E)0.75 nm or shorter

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The energy of a photon is inversely proportional to its wavelength, as described by the equation E = hc/λ, where E is the energy, h is Planck's constant, c is the speed of light, and λ is the wavelength. Given the energy of 49,600 eV (which can be converted to Joules but isn't necessary for this qualitative explanation), we can infer that photons with lower energy will have longer wavelengths. The option that correctly reflects a wavelength that corresponds to this energy level or less (meaning longer wavelength) is 0.025 nm or longer. This is because as the energy decreases, the wavelength increases.

An X-Ray Generator Produces Photons with Energy 49 600 EV