Can a photon of light become a radio wave?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the possibility of transforming a photon of visible light into a radio wave, exploring various methods and concepts related to frequency manipulation, energy conversion, and practical applications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire whether it is possible to reduce the frequency of a photon of visible light enough to reach the radio wave range, mentioning scattering and the Doppler effect as potential methods.
  • One participant references the cosmic microwave background as an example of frequency reduction.
  • Another participant expresses interest in manipulating light to create radio waves directly from sunlight or using solar energy.
  • It is suggested that a solar panel could be used to power a radio transmitter, indicating a practical application of converting solar energy into radio waves.
  • Another approach mentioned involves using a single-photon detector to trigger a radio transmitter for sending short pulses.
  • One participant raises concerns about the energy differences involved in direct transformation, suggesting that laser practices might provide insight, particularly regarding energy levels and photon emission.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the feasibility of directly transforming visible light photons into radio waves, with various methods proposed and differing opinions on the energy implications.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the manipulation of light and energy conversion processes, which may not be fully explored or defined. The feasibility of the proposed methods remains uncertain.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in the interplay between different types of electromagnetic radiation, energy conversion technologies, and practical applications of solar energy in communication systems may find this discussion relevant.

nick978
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Is there a way to change a photon of visible light to a radio wave? I know scattering and doppler effect can reduce frequency but is it possible to reduce the frequency enough to get in the radio wave range?
 
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nick978 said:
Is there a way to change a photon of visible light to a radio wave? I know scattering and doppler effect can reduce frequency but is it possible to reduce the frequency enough to get in the radio wave range?
Sure! That's what this is: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosmic_microwave_background
 
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Good answer. My question is more about if there is a way that we can manipulate light to create radio waves easily. In the sense of taking sunlight, using some science magic and creating radio waves. Or alternatively, using the energy from the sun to create radio waves (through any means)
 
You can use a solar panel to power a radio transmitter.
 
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Likes   Reactions: davenn and e.bar.goum
Or use a single-photon detector to trigger a radio transmitter to send a short pulse.
 
I think that energy differs too much for directly transformation. May you can look on laser practices. On pumping phase we use exited energy levels so a high energy photon can absorbed and a less energy photon can emitted.
 

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