Partial Reflection: Explaining Glass & Thickness Effects

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the complexities of partial reflection in glass and how its thickness influences reflection, particularly from a particle perspective. Participants recommend Richard P. Feynman's book "QED: The Strange Theory of Light and Matter" for a foundational understanding, although they note that it lacks the mathematical depth some readers desire. The conversation highlights the inadequacy of classical electrodynamics in addressing the fundamental reasons behind partial reflection, likening the unresolved nature of the topic to Fermat's Last Theorem in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of classical electrodynamics
  • Familiarity with the principles of reflection and refraction
  • Basic knowledge of quantum electrodynamics (QED)
  • Mathematical proficiency to engage with advanced physics concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Read "QED: The Strange Theory of Light and Matter" by Richard P. Feynman
  • Study the principles of boundary conditions in classical electrodynamics
  • Explore advanced topics in quantum electrodynamics
  • Investigate the historical context and implications of Fermat's Last Theorem in physics
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Physicists, students of advanced physics, and anyone interested in the theoretical underpinnings of light behavior and reflection phenomena.

pmerrill
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Was recently re-reading QED and wondered whether there was any "simple" explanation of partial reflection? How does the thickness of glass affect reflection if it's a particle?
 
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Actually, nobody knows the answer to this one. For a basic exposition, I would highly recommend that you read "QED-The Strange theory of light and Matter by R.P Feynman".

The stuff you learn about matching up boundary conditions to retrace the path of the reflected and refracted rays (Classical Electrodynamics approach) does not answer the question why? It gives the answer, but not at the fundamental level.
 
Yeh, I've read QED, very good treatment, not enough math for me to really understand things. Odd that a problem that is so simple to demonstrate, and known about since Newton's time, has yet to be solved. Maybe it's Fermats last theorem for physicists?
 

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