Fundamentals of Physics Extended (10th Edition)

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

Chapter 42 - Nuclear Physics - Problems - Page 1302: 11b

Answer

The electrons are at the lower limit in energy for useful probes.

Work Step by Step

The diameter of a copper nucleus, for example, is about $8.6 \mathrm{fm},$ just a little larger than the de Broglie wavelength of a $200-\mathrm{MeV}$ electron. To resolve detail, the wavelength should be smaller than the target, ideally a tenth of the diameter or less. $200-\mathrm{MeV}$ electrons are perhaps at the lower limit in energy for useful probes.
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