find kinetic energy

Q) A neutron moving with speed v strikes a hydrogen atom in ground state moving towards it with same speed. Find the minimum kinetic energy of the neutron for which inelastic(complete or partial) collision may occur .
(Take mass of neutron equal to mass of H-atom .)

Ans .5.1 eV

3 Answers

21
Swaraj Dalmia ·

This is a very interesting question and for the first 5 mins. i was completely stumped.
But finally got it.

Hint:In inelestic collision energy is lost.Where does that energy go?It is either lost as radiation(minimum amt.)
or is absorbed as heat.

71
Vivek @ Born this Way ·

ie., The maximum energy that can be lost = mv2 which equal E ev.

So Energy of neutron should be E/2 . Now Since partial inelastic collision is required, the E = 10.2 ev, the Energy difference b/w the two orbits of Hydrogen.

Hence the answer.

262
Aditya Bhutra ·

thnx swaraj and vivek .

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