Question #15b3b
1 Answer
For the x-rays:
For the
Explanation:
To calculate the energy of these photons, we need the Planck relation written in terms of wavelength (
Since the units on ionization energy are kJ per mol, we must convert Planck's constant into a "kJ s per mol" value.
Using
Now, just insert the wavelength:
For the x-rays:
For the
In both cases, this energy is orders of ten greater than the typical bond energy of molecules in organic compounds (about 100 kJ per mol). This explains why these forms of radiation are so dangerous to living organisms.