1
$\begingroup$

Electron deBroglie wavelength is

$\lambda = \frac{h}{p}$

Now if I calculate the electron deBroglie wavelength for a low energy electron (KE = ~1 eV) it would be ~ 1 nm and as the energy increases this wavelength decreases.

My question is that if I change the frame of reference from lab frame (where electron has high energy) to the electron center of mass frame its deBroglie wavelength suddenly increases.

Can this change of inertial frame affect the interaction of electron with other particles.

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
2
  • 2
    $\begingroup$ You probably mean de Broglie wavelength is $\frac{h}{p}$, not $\frac{\lambda}{p}$. $\endgroup$
    – Thomas Fritsch
    Commented Dec 13, 2020 at 17:47
  • $\begingroup$ @Thomas Fritsch Thanks. I have corrected the error $\endgroup$
    – hsinghal
    Commented Dec 14, 2020 at 2:22

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
2
$\begingroup$

You are talking about boost (changing to a moving the reference frame), quantum mechanics is not consistent with special relativity. Why? You can boost to a reference frame which is moving at 0.99999999 c. Then all the deBroglie wavelength of the particles become very very small and the cross section goes to zero. However, the cross section should be independent of the reference frame. In order to solve this problem you have to use quantum field theory to calculate cross sections and boost.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.