In the Compton effect, a photon of wavelength $\lambda$ and frequency f hits an electron that is initially at rest. Which one of the following occurs as a result of the collision?
A)The photon is absorbed completely.
B)The photon gains energy, so the final photon has a frequency greater than f.
C)The photon gains energy, so the final photon has a wavelength greater than $\lambda$.
D)The photon loses energy, so the final photon has a frequency less than f.
E)The photon loses energy, so the final photon has a wavelength less than $\lambda$.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the Compton effect, a photon collides with a stationary electron, and as a result, the photon loses some energy to the electron. This leads to an increase in wavelength and a decrease in frequency of the scattered photon. Therefore, the final photon has a lower frequency and a higher wavelength than the incident photon. So, the best choice is D, which says the photon loses energy, and the final photon has a frequency less than f.

In the Compton Effect, a Photon of Wavelength λ\lambdaλ And Frequency F Hits an Electron That Is Initially at Frequency

In the Compton Effect, a Photon of Wavelength $\lambda$ And Frequency F Hits an Electron That Is Initially at Frequency