Electrons moving in a beam have the same de Broglie wavelength as protons moving in a separate beam. The proton beam moves at a speed of 3.1 x 10^4 m/s. What is the speed of the electrons?

From the data sheet, the de Broglie wavelength, 𝜆 = h/p = h/(mv)
The electron wavelength equals the proton wavelength so: 𝜆e = 𝜆p
So: h/(meve) = h/(mpvp)
meve = mpvp
so the electron speed, ve = (mpvp)/me
From the data sheet, the rest mass of an electron and a proton respectively are: me = 9.11x10-31kg, and: mp = 1.67x10-27kg
Subbing these values along with the proton speed from the question gives:
ve = (1.67x10-27 x 3.1x104)/( 9.11x10-31)
ve = 5.7x107ms-1

AG
Answered by Alexandra G. Physics tutor

2817 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you use a Variable Resistor to determine values to show the relationship between I and V?


What is natural frequency and how is it associated with resonance?


What determines the acoustic impedance of a material and why is it useful in understanding ultrasound imaging?


A gold leaf electroscope with a zinc plate top is charged by briefly connecting it to the negative electrode of a high-voltage supply. Explain how the gold leaf will appear and how the leaf can be caused to drop again.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning