What is the de Broglie wavelength of an electron?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the calculation of the de Broglie wavelength of an electron, which involves using the formula \( \lambda = \frac{h}{p} \) where \( h \) is Planck's constant and \( p \) is the momentum of the electron.
Answer
Around 10 nm
The de Broglie wavelength of an electron can vary depending on its momentum, but typical values range around 10 nm in metals and can be more precisely calculated using the de Broglie equation.
Answer for screen readers
The de Broglie wavelength of an electron can vary depending on its momentum, but typical values range around 10 nm in metals and can be more precisely calculated using the de Broglie equation.
More Information
The wavelength of an electron changes with its speed; faster electrons have shorter wavelengths. The de Broglie wavelength highlights the wave-particle duality of electrons.
Sources
- de Broglie Wavelength - Definition, Formula, Derivation, Electrons - byjus.com
- 5.8: de Broglie Wave Equation - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
- The wavelength of an electron - asc.ohio-state.edu
