What are the differences between photon and neutrino oscillations?

In summary, the conversation discusses the differences in oscillations between a photon and a neutrino, particularly in terms of probability range and energy. It is suggested that while photons have a single type, there are different types of neutrinos with varying energy levels. Additionally, if a photon and neutrino had the same wavelength, the neutrino would have a higher total energy due to its rest energy.
  • #1
jojoistherealking
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i'm wondering about the differences in oscillations between a photon and neutrino, does a neutrino have a wider probability range (or a greater amplitude for a possible location than does a photon) how do the probability ranges for a photon and a neutrino compare when not looking at wavelength but the height of the wave?

if a photon and neutrino had the same wavelength (like 1/1000meter), it's safe to assume that the neutrino would have a lot more energy right?

thanks
 
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  • #2
What do you mean by photon oscillation? Unlike neutrinos, there's only one kind of photon.
 
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  • #3
oscillation was the wrong word, unsurprisingly, i guess i mean differences in the wave
 
  • #4
jojoistherealking said:
if a photon and neutrino had the same wavelength (like 1/1000meter), it's safe to assume that the neutrino would have a lot more energy right?
A de-Broglie wavelength of 1mm corresponds to a momentum of 1.2 meV/c, two of the neutrino mass eigenstates are slow at this speed, for the third we don't know. At a given momentum a photon (as every massless particle) has the largest possible energy, so the kinetic energies of the neutrinos would be lower, especially for the heavier types. The total energy (if you include the rest energy for neutrinos) is higher.
 

1. What is a photon and what is a neutrino?

A photon is a massless particle that carries electromagnetic radiation, such as light. A neutrino is a subatomic particle that has a tiny amount of mass and interacts weakly with matter.

2. How do photon and neutrino oscillations occur?

Photon oscillations occur when a photon's energy and wavelength change as it travels through a medium, such as air or water. Neutrino oscillations occur when a neutrino changes between different flavors, or types, as it travels through space.

3. What is the main difference between photon and neutrino oscillations?

The main difference between photon and neutrino oscillations is that photon oscillations are due to changes in energy and wavelength, while neutrino oscillations are due to changes in flavor.

4. How are photon and neutrino oscillations important in understanding the universe?

Photon and neutrino oscillations are important in understanding the universe because they provide insights into the properties of matter and the fundamental laws of physics. They also help us understand the behavior of particles and energy on a microscopic level.

5. Can photon and neutrino oscillations be observed in experiments?

Yes, photon and neutrino oscillations can be observed in experiments. For photon oscillations, this can be done through experiments such as the double-slit experiment, which demonstrates the wave-like behavior of light. For neutrino oscillations, experiments such as the Super-Kamiokande in Japan and the Sudbury Neutrino Observatory in Canada have provided evidence of neutrino oscillations.

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