Photon Minimum Energy

In summary, there is no theoretical minimum energy value for a photon of near-infinite wavelength due to the expansion of the universe. However, in the real universe, the presence of free electrons and protons may affect the existence of photons with frequencies below the plasma frequency of the intergalactic medium.
  • #1
jonmtkisco
532
1
Is there any theoretical minimum energy value for a photon of near-infinite wavelength?

As the expansion of the universe continues redshifting the photons of free radiation (e.g., the remnants of the CMB), is it theoretically possible that the energy of individual photons could decrease to infinitely close to zero, or is there some sort of minimum cutoff value?

Jon
 
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  • #2
No, there is no lower bound.
 
  • #3
Except, of course, that the real universe we live in has lots of free electrons (along with protons), albeit rather far apart (on average).

This means photons will have an interesting existence (shall we say) if their frequency is below the plasma frequency of the IGM ...
 
  • #4
Thanks.

Jon
 
  • #5
Calculate the energy of a photon with a wavelength of about 13.7 billion light years.
 

1. What is Photon Minimum Energy?

Photon Minimum Energy refers to the minimum amount of energy that a single photon of light can carry. It is the smallest unit of energy that can be emitted or absorbed by an atom or molecule.

2. How is Photon Minimum Energy related to the electromagnetic spectrum?

Photon Minimum Energy is directly related to the electromagnetic spectrum, as it is the energy of a single photon at the shortest wavelength of the spectrum. As the wavelength increases, the energy of the photon also increases.

3. What is the equation for calculating Photon Minimum Energy?

The equation for calculating Photon Minimum Energy is E = hc/λ, where E is energy, h is Planck's constant, c is the speed of light, and λ is the wavelength of the photon.

4. Can Photon Minimum Energy change?

Yes, the energy of a photon can change depending on the wavelength of the light. As the wavelength increases, the energy of the photon decreases and vice versa.

5. Why is Photon Minimum Energy important in understanding light and its interactions?

Photon Minimum Energy is important because it helps us understand the fundamental properties of light and how it interacts with matter. It also allows us to accurately measure and predict the behavior of light in various situations, such as in spectroscopy and in the development of technologies that utilize light, such as lasers and solar panels.

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