Question
A single photon in empty space is transformed into an electron and a positron, each with rest mass m(e).
(a) show that the folowing process is dynamically impossible.
(b) Explain in detail how this process can be made possible
(c) for part b what would be the minimum photon energy required for this to happen?
Show all steps in calculation
(a) show that the folowing process is dynamically impossible.
(b) Explain in detail how this process can be made possible
(c) for part b what would be the minimum photon energy required for this to happen?
Show all steps in calculation
Answers
drwls
Gamma rays of sufficient energy can create a positron and an electron, if the photon energy exceed 2 m c^2.
This can only happen in the presence of another mass , which is needed to allow both energy and momentum to be conserved. Sone of the original photon momentum has to be transferred to another mass.
This can only happen in the presence of another mass , which is needed to allow both energy and momentum to be conserved. Sone of the original photon momentum has to be transferred to another mass.