Low energy photon - electron collision

In summary, when a photon collides with an electron but does not have enough energy to dislodge it or move it to the next energy level, nothing happens. This is because the probability of an electron being between energy levels is zero, making it impossible for it to absorb that level of energy. However, the photon will scatter off in a different direction, transferring some momentum and kinetic energy to the atom as a whole and becoming redshifted. This process is similar to Compton scattering, but instead of using the mass of a free electron, the mass of the atom must be used. This phenomenon can be observed in transparent objects.
  • #1
Question Man
9
0
Suppose a photon collides with an electron, but does not have enough energy to dislodge the electron or knock the electron into it's next energy level. What happens? Is the effect observed?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Nothing happens. The probability that an electron exists between energy levels is zero, so the probability that it will absorb that level of energy is zero.
 
  • #3
The photon will scatter off from its initial direction, transferring a little momentum and kinetic energy to the atom as a whole and losing a little bit of energy, thus becoming redshifted. It is like the Compton scattering, only that instead of the mass of a free electron, you should use the mass of the atom.
 
  • #4
I believe this is what happens in transparent objects
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Omr0JNyDBI0
 
Last edited:

1. What is a low energy photon-electron collision?

A low energy photon-electron collision occurs when a photon (a packet of electromagnetic energy) with low energy collides with an electron (a subatomic particle with a negative charge). This collision can result in the transfer of energy from the photon to the electron, causing the electron to become excited or even ionized.

2. How do low energy photon-electron collisions occur?

Low energy photon-electron collisions can occur in several ways. One common way is through the interaction of light with matter, such as in a gas or plasma. In this case, the photon and electron collide due to the electric and magnetic fields of the light and the charged particles in the material. Another way is through the use of specialized equipment, such as particle accelerators, which can produce low energy photon beams that collide with electrons.

3. What are the applications of low energy photon-electron collisions?

Low energy photon-electron collisions have many practical applications in fields such as materials science, chemistry, and astrophysics. They are used to study the electronic structure of materials, as well as the properties and behavior of atoms and molecules. They are also important in understanding the formation and evolution of stars and galaxies.

4. How are low energy photon-electron collisions studied?

Scientists use a variety of techniques to study low energy photon-electron collisions. These include theoretical models, computer simulations, and experiments using specialized equipment. In some cases, scientists can directly observe the collision and its effects, while in other cases they rely on indirect measurements to infer the results of the collision.

5. What is the significance of studying low energy photon-electron collisions?

Studying low energy photon-electron collisions allows scientists to better understand the fundamental principles of physics and the behavior of matter at the atomic and subatomic level. This knowledge has many practical applications, such as in the development of new materials, technologies, and treatments for various diseases. It also helps us gain a deeper understanding of the universe and its origins.

Similar threads

  • Quantum Physics
Replies
21
Views
814
Replies
5
Views
578
Replies
1
Views
262
Replies
54
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
21
Views
981
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
617
Replies
10
Views
939
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
5
Views
747
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
12
Views
668
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
3
Views
2K
Back
Top