Einstein's coefficients recoil effect

In summary, Einstein's coefficients recoil effect is a phenomenon in which an atom absorbs or emits a photon and recoils in the opposite direction, described by the laws of quantum mechanics. This effect can alter atomic transitions and is crucial in technologies such as lasers and atomic clocks. It can be measured through various experimental techniques, and Einstein's work on the photoelectric effect and quantum mechanics contributed to our understanding of it.
  • #1
zb23
26
2
What would happen with Einstein's coefficients if we wouldn't neglect the recoil effects?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
zb23 said:
What would happen with Einstein's coefficients if we wouldn't neglect the recoil effects?
Assuming that Einstein's coefficients are basically probabilities of absorption or emission of light by an atom or molecule, would recoil influence those probabilities?

Robert Hilborn, Einstein coefficients, cross sections, f values, dipole moments, and all that
https://arxiv.org/abs/physics/0202029
 
  • Like
Likes zb23

1. What is Einstein's coefficients recoil effect?

Einstein's coefficients recoil effect is a phenomenon in which an atom or molecule emits a photon with a certain energy and momentum, causing the atom or molecule to recoil in the opposite direction. This effect is a consequence of the conservation of momentum and energy.

2. How does the recoil effect affect the emission of photons?

The recoil effect causes the emitted photon to have a slightly lower energy and longer wavelength compared to the original energy and wavelength of the atom or molecule. This is because some of the energy and momentum is transferred to the atom or molecule itself, causing it to recoil.

3. What is the significance of the recoil effect in atomic and molecular physics?

The recoil effect is important in understanding the behavior of atoms and molecules, particularly in the emission and absorption of photons. It also plays a role in the Doppler effect and the spectral lines of atoms and molecules.

4. How did Einstein first discover the recoil effect?

Einstein first predicted the recoil effect in his theory of spontaneous emission in 1917. He derived the equations for the recoil effect by considering the conservation of momentum and energy in the emission of photons from atoms and molecules.

5. Is the recoil effect only applicable to photons?

No, the recoil effect can also occur in other types of particles, such as electrons, protons, and neutrons. However, it is most commonly observed in the emission and absorption of photons due to their extremely small mass and high speed.

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
956
  • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
38
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
859
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
0
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Precalculus Mathematics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
288
Replies
5
Views
932
Back
Top