What occurs during the Compton scattering interaction?

During the Compton scattering interaction, an incident photon collides with a loosely bound or free electron, resulting in the transfer of energy and momentum. In this process, the photon is deflected and continues to propagate, but with a decreased energy level—hence, it loses some of its energy during the interaction. This change in energy corresponds to a longer wavelength of the scattered photon in accordance with the principles of wavelength and energy relationship in electromagnetic radiation.

The interaction primarily illustrates how a photon can interact with matter without complete absorption, which distinguishes it from other interactions like photoelectric absorption, where the photon is entirely absorbed. Compton scattering effectively demonstrates the interaction between light and matter at a quantum level, providing insights into the behavior of photons when they encounter electrons. Understanding this process is crucial for applications in radiation safety and the design of radiation shielding, as it determines how radiation interacts with various materials.