Fundamentals of Physics Extended (10th Edition)

Published by Wiley
ISBN 10: 1-11823-072-8
ISBN 13: 978-1-11823-072-5

Chapter 38 - Photons and Matter Waves - Problems - Page 1184: 68c

Answer

The outer electrons of atoms are bound to the atom by energies of only a few electron-volts. Therefore, high energy photon can knock the outer electrons out of its orbit. But inner electrons are tightly bound to the atom. The maximum energy (39.23 keV) imparted by photon to an inner electron can not knock out them. Therefore, the possibility of “viewing” an atomic electron at two or more points along its presumed orbital path is zero.

Work Step by Step

The outer electrons of atoms are bound to the atom by energies of only a few electron-volts. Therefore, high energy photon can knock the outer electrons out of its orbit. But inner electrons are tightly bound to the atom. The maximum energy (39.23 keV) imparted by photon to an inner electron can not knock out them. Therefore, the possibility of “viewing” an atomic electron at two or more points along its presumed orbital path is zero.
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