Question
The nucleus 57Fe emits a γ-ray of energy 14.4 KeV. If the mass of the nucleus is 56.935 amu, calculate the recoil energy of the nucleus.
Solution
Here,
Energy of γ-ray is, E(γ) = 14.4 KeV
= 14.4 x 1.6 x 10–16 J
= 2.24 x10–15J
Mass of nucleus, m(Fe) = 56.935 amu
We know the momentum of proton is given by,
According to conservation of momentum,
Thus the recoil energy of nucleus is,