Moderate

In order to produce pair production the minimum energy of photon required is:

Correct answer: B. 1.02 MeV

  • A. 1.02 KeV
  • B. 1.02 MeV
  • C. 10.2 KeV
  • D. 1.00 MeV

Explanation

Pair production is a process where a photon is converted into an electron-positron pair. For this to occur, the photon must have a minimum energy equal to twice the rest mass energy of an electron, which is approximately 1.02 MeV. This is because the rest mass energy of an electron (or positron) is about 0.511 MeV, and two such particles are created. Therefore, 1.02 MeV is the minimum necessary energy for pair production. The options 1.02 KeV and 10.2 KeV are far too low, as they are measured in KeV (kilo-electron volts) rather than MeV (mega-electron volts). Option 1.00 MeV is close but does not meet the required threshold.

Last updated

About Dawn of Modern Physics

Classical physics cannot explain blackbody radiation and related observations, leading to Planck’s quantum theory, in which energy is emitted or absorbed in discrete packets. Photons provide the particle model of light, with energy and momentum linked to frequency and wavelength, including the photoelectric effect and its threshold frequency.

Practise Dawn of Modern Physics

739 free Dawn of Modern Physics MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 13 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

Related questions