Question

In a gamma decay process, the internal energy of a nucleus of mass M decreases, a gamma photon of energy E and linear momentum E/c is emitted and the nucleus recoils. Find the decrease in internal energy.

Answer 1

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ANSWER::

Kinetic Energy of nucleus = (1/2)mv² = (1/2) m (E/mc)² = E²/2mc²

Energy limited by Gamma photon = E

Decrease in internal energy = E + E²/2mc²

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