When does an accelerated electron not radiate?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the assumptions made in classical electrodynamics regarding the radiation of energy from a charged particle with non-zero acceleration. It also brings up the concept of stationary states and how it relates to the assumption of constant energy radiation. Finally, there is a question about finding the FAQ for the Physics Forums.
  • #1
pej.dgr
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Classical electrodynamics assumes that any charged particle that has a non-zero acceleration is, all the time, radiating energy even if most of the time the energy loss is far too small to detect. Anyone who accepts the physical existence of stationary states rejects the “all the time” assumption.

I would read quantum mechanics as saying “If with no change in the velocity of the particle there is no attainable state of lower energy there will be no radiation?”

Is this correct?

Phil Gardner
 
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  • #2
Please read our FAQ in the General Physics section.

Zz.
 
  • #3
How does one find your FAQ? A search for "FAQ" turns up nothing. A title search for "Freqently" or "asked" turns up nothing relevant.

Phil Gardner
 
  • #4
pej.dgr said:
How does one find your FAQ? A search for "FAQ" turns up nothing. A title search for "Freqently" or "asked" turns up nothing relevant.

Phil Gardner

Er... as was mentioned, go to the General Physics forum. One of the stickied thread is titled "Physics Forums FAQ".

Zz.
 
  • #5
what a rat guy zapperz
 

1. What is an accelerated electron?

An accelerated electron is an electron that is moving at a changing velocity. This can be either a change in speed or direction.

2. Why does an accelerated electron not always radiate?

An accelerated electron only radiates when it experiences a change in direction. If the electron is moving in a straight line at a constant speed, it will not radiate.

3. How do you calculate the radiation emitted by an accelerated electron?

The radiation emitted by an accelerated electron can be calculated using Larmor's formula, which takes into account the acceleration, charge, and direction of the electron.

4. What factors affect the amount of radiation emitted by an accelerated electron?

The amount of radiation emitted by an accelerated electron depends on its acceleration, charge, and direction. Additionally, the medium through which the electron is traveling and the presence of external magnetic fields can also impact the amount of radiation emitted.

5. Can an accelerated electron ever emit no radiation?

Yes, if an electron is moving in a perfectly circular path at a constant speed, it will not radiate as there is no change in direction. This is known as uniform circular motion.

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