Can a stable gas be ionized by concentrated light?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the ionization of gases by concentrated light, exploring the mechanisms by which photons can affect electrons in atoms. Participants examine the conditions under which ionization occurs, particularly in relation to energy levels and the role of multiple photons.

Discussion Character

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

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether multiple photons can lead to an electron becoming detached from an atom, indicating uncertainty about the process of ionization.
  • Another participant suggests that ionization can occur when an atom is struck by a single photon with sufficient energy, noting that electrons excited to higher energy levels typically return to lower levels quickly.
  • A different contribution mentions the application of this principle in laser enrichment of Uranium, where intense infrared laser light can ionize Uranium hexafluoride, depending on the laser frequency and isotope.
  • One participant reiterates the idea that a single high-energy photon can directly ionize an atom, while also acknowledging that multiple photons require high densities, typically achievable with lasers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying views on the mechanisms of ionization, with some supporting the idea of single photon ionization while others highlight the role of multiple photons. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of how concentrated light can ionize gases.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations related to assumptions about photon energy levels, the conditions required for ionization, and the specific contexts in which these processes occur. The discussion does not resolve the complexities of these factors.

LastTimelord
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I know that an electron can be brought to a higher energy level when hit by a photon, but if it is hit by several photons, is it possible that it will become no longer attached to the particle?

This may be a stupid question, I'm not a scientist.
 
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Yes, for example stars can ionize the hydrogen in interstellar space: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H_II_region

I may be wrong about this, but I would guess that most such ionization occurs when the atom is hit by a single photon with high enough energy to knock the electron away. Electrons that are only raised to a higher level within the atom very quickly (within nanoseconds or microseconds) fall back down to the lowest energy level.
 
Thanks for your help!
 
This also forms the basis for laser enrichment e.g. of Uranium: Uranium hexafluoride (UF6) is ionized by intense infrared laser light of which many quanta have to be absorbed to lead to ionization. The ionization yield depends on the precise laser frequency and the isotope (238-U vs. 235-U).
 
LastTimelord said:
I know that an electron can be brought to a higher energy level when hit by a photon, but if it is hit by several photons, is it possible that it will become no longer attached to the particle?
If the single photon has enough energy, it can ionize the atom directly.

Several photons at the same time require really high photon densities - something you only get with lasers, but it is possible today.
 

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