Question
An electron and a proton are accelerated through the same potential. Which one of the two has (i) greater value of de-Broglie wavelength associated with it and (ii) less momentum? Justify answer.
Solution
(i) The de-Broglie wavelength associated with same potential V is given by,
As electron's mass is lesser than proton. Thus, λ electron > λ proton.
(ii) Now as,
Since,
Hence, momentum of electron will be lesser than proton because, momentum and wavelength have inverse dependence.
As electron's mass is lesser than proton. Thus, λ electron > λ proton.
(ii) Now as,
Since,
Hence, momentum of electron will be lesser than proton because, momentum and wavelength have inverse dependence.
