Compton Scattering Calculator
⚛ Atomic & Quantum. Use the Compton scattering formula to find wavelength shift, scattering angle θ: pick the value you want, type the others, and the answer updates as you go.
Pick the ○ next to the value you want to find, fill in the others, and it solves as you type.
What each letter means
| Quantity | Unit |
|---|---|
| Wavelength shift | pm |
| Scattering angle θ | ° |
Worked example
Find the wavelength shift when Scattering angle θ = 90 °.
Using λ' - λ = h/(me c)(1 - cosθ): Wavelength shift = 2.4263 pm.
Frequently asked questions
What is the formula for Compton scattering?
λ' - λ = h/(me c)(1 - cosθ).
What do the letters stand for, and what units are used?
Wavelength shift in pm, Scattering angle θ in °.
How do you calculate wavelength shift?
Put the values into λ' - λ = h/(me c)(1 - cosθ). For example, with Scattering angle θ = 90 °, wavelength shift = 2.4263 pm.
Can I solve for a different value?
Yes. In the calculator above, pick the circle next to any value (wavelength shift, scattering angle θ) and fill in the others: it rearranges the formula for you.
