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Currently Playing: What is Compton Scattering?

This video provides a detailed overview of Compton Scattering and its role in the development of quantum physics. The photon model of light is used to explain the Compton shift in wavelength of scattered x-rays by electrons. The principles of energy and momentum conservation are used to calculate the size of the wavelength shift as a function of scattering angle. The video ends with a discussion of the significance of the Compton wavelength and its connection with Quantum Field Theory. This video draws on the works listed below. Portions of the explanation of Compton's experiment, the shifted/unshifted peaks and the discussion of Compton and Rayleigh scattering closely follow or adapt the treatment in Eisberg & Resnick, Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei and Particles. Introduction to Quantum Mechanics - Griffiths and Schroeter Introduction to Quantum Mechanics - Phillips The Quantum Story - Jim Baggot Quantum Physics for Dummies - Steven Holzner Thirty Years that Shook Physics - Gamow Inward Bound - Abraham Pais You can help support this channel via the Physics Explained Patreon account: https://www.patreon.com/physicsexplained You can follow me on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/physics_explained_ig You can follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PhysicsExplain1