College Physics (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32160-183-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-32160-183-4

Chapter 28 - Quantum Mechanics and Atomic Physics - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Conceptual Questions - Page 961: 3

Answer

When accelerating an electron from rest through an electric potential difference, increasing the potential difference will result in a shorter de-Broglie wavelength.

Work Step by Step

From equation 28.3 it is clear that for nonrelativistic electron initially at rest. de-Broglie wavelength is given by $\lambda= \sqrt \frac{h^2}{2meV}$, where $h$ is planks constant, $m$ is mass of electron, $e$ is charge of electron and $V$ is accelerating electric potential difference. so de Broglie wavelength is inversely proportional to applied electric potential difference. So increasing the electric potential difference will result in shorter de Broglie wavelength.
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