Atomic Spontaneous Decay in Spherical Cavity

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the spontaneous decay of an atom within a spherical cavity, with a focus on the relevant literature and the physics of cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED). Participants explore the implications of cavity shape on the supported electromagnetic modes and the absence of certain modes in spherical cavities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks resources on the spontaneous decay of atoms in spherical cavities.
  • Another participant suggests that there are many books on cavity QED and notes that the shape of the cavity influences the supported modes but not the underlying physics.
  • A follow-up question seeks clarification on what is meant by "cavity support" regarding the modes.
  • A participant explains that the modes refer to the transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) modes, and mentions that spherical cavities have been used historically, with recommendations for engineering references.
  • One participant asserts that only TE and TM modes can exist in spherical cavities and questions the absence of transverse electromagnetic (TEM) modes.
  • A later reply asks for a description of what a TEM mode would look like and suggests consulting a book on microwave engineering for a more detailed explanation of modes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the existence of TEM modes in spherical cavities, with some asserting their absence while others seek clarification on the topic. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of TEM modes.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference the need for engineering-type literature and the historical context of spherical cavities, indicating potential limitations in the available resources and definitions related to cavity modes.

wasi-uz-zaman
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hello, I am studying spontaneous decay of an atom in spherical cavity - but I am not getting any good book on that can anyone help me in this regard.
thanks
wasi
 
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There should be plenty of books around on cavity QED.
The shape of the cavity shouldn't matter for the underlying physics, that just determines which modes the cavity can support.
 
f95toli said:
There should be plenty of books around on cavity QED.
The shape of the cavity shouldn't matter for the underlying physics, that just determines which modes the cavity can support.

You said modes that the cavity can support? What are you referring to by cavity support?
 
I meant which TE and TM electromagnetic modes you can get in the cavity, Spherical cavities have been used for a long time (although I believe most are not actually spherical, just nearly) and you should be able to find plenty of information if you look in more engineering-type references (e.g. books on microwave engineering); much of it will be applicable even if you are working with frequencies higher than typical microwave frequencies.
 
Only TE and TM modes can exist in spherical cavity but what is the reason for not getting TEM modes in the cavity.
 
What would a TEM mode in a cavity look like?
I would suggest you have a look in a book on microwave engineering (e.g. the book by Pozar), a forum is not the right place for an in-depth explanation of modes in microwave cavities.
 

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