Problem 3
An atom of mass , initially at rest, absorbs a photon of wavelength . Assuming , find its approximate recoil speed; is Planck’s constant and the speed of light. (a) State the assumptions and establish the governing equation for the requested quantity. (b) Solve it in terms of the given symbols, identifying the direction, sign, or physical nature of the result. (c) Check a simple limiting case and state when the model remains valid. Use SI units consistently, retain the symbols in the setup, and enforce all geometric constraints and initial conditions.
problems.proof.stepOf
problems.proof.analysis
This follows from the physical law and assumptions in the problem.
problems.proof.pitfall. Do not discard an initial condition or stated constraint; an algebraic root outside the physical domain is not an answer.