Hi all, This is my first time here, please help me along Qn: Calculate the De Broglie wavelength of a neutron with a translational kinetic energy = kT at 300K. k = boltzmann constant = 1.38 x 10^-23 JK-1 Solution: λ = h / p = h / (2mE)^1/2 (E: kinetic energy) = h / (2mkT)^1/2 (substitute E with kT, the translational kinetic energy) why do we use translational energy = kT here? I googled, most of the webpage suggest KE = 3/2 kT (or kBT) (kB: boltzmann constant) I am trying to understand why the question omit 3/2?
To my understanding 3/2 is to account for the 3 axis of direction, x, y, and z direction. So instead of KE = 1/2 kT, we get 3/2 kT. Any guidance is appreciated!
