Compton effect

noun

, Physics.

1. the increase in wavelength of monochromatic, electromagnetic radiation, as a beam of photons or x-rays, when it is scattered by particles whose size is small compared to the wavelength of the radiation.

Compton effect

/ ˈkɒmptən /

noun

1. a phenomenon in which a collision between a photon and a particle results in an increase in the kinetic energy of the particle and a corresponding increase in the wavelength of the photon

Compton effect

1. An increase in the wavelength of electromagnetic radiation, especially of x-rays or gamma-rays, when the photons constituting the radiation collide with free electrons. As a result of the Compton effect, the photons transfer some of their energy to the electrons. It is mainly through the Compton effect that matter absorbs radiant energy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Compton effect¹

First recorded in 1920–25; named after A. H. Compton

Word History and Origins

Origin of Compton effect¹

C20: named after Arthur Holly Compton (1892–1962), US physicist

Example Sentences

That scattering, aka the Compton effect, can be achieved by sending laser light and an electron beam on a collision course.

From Science Daily

Related: The Straight Outta Compton effect: prepare to see a lot more rap films A trailer for the new film, which features American actor Tsalta Baptiste as Tupac, has hit the web.

From The Guardian

This "Compton effect" went far to explain photo-electricity and to make the old idea of a light-conducting ether, already in disrepute, even more unnecessary since light as bullets could travel indefinitely through empty space.

From Time Magazine Archive

The "Compton effect" won him a Nobel prize for physics in 1927.

From Time Magazine Archive