Compton Effect

1. Low energy phenomena

Photoelectric Effect

2. Mid-energy phenomena
- Rayleigh Scattering (Classical)
- Compton Scattering (Quantum)

3. High-energy phenomena
- Pair production

Fig credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compton_scattering

Compton Scattering
Experiment

Fig. Credit: http://hyperphysics.phy-

astr.gsu.edu/hbase/quantum/compdat.html#c1
 Shift in wavelength

Figure Credit: http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/quantum/compdat.html#c1

 Compton formula

Figure adapted from : www.boundless.com

 Quick Problems
1. Calculate the shift in wavelength of a photon if
the angle of scattering is 30 degrees.
2. Given that a high energy x-ray of wavelength 7.9
A hits a carbon target, calculate the scattered
wavelength of the x-ray at 45degrees.
3. At what angle of scattering is the wavelength
change is maximum?
4. Similarly, estimate the angle at which the
wavelength change is minimum.