Can Light Erode Matter? Understanding the Impact of Photons on Diamonds

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the interaction between light and diamonds, specifically how photons behave when passing through a medium like diamond. It is established that photons are absorbed by electrons in the diamond, which then re-emit new photons, creating the illusion of light slowing down. The inquiry into whether prolonged exposure to light could erode diamonds is addressed, concluding that while radiation can affect materials, the premise of light causing mass loss in diamonds is incorrect.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photon behavior in materials
  • Basic knowledge of electron absorption and emission
  • Familiarity with concepts of radiation effects on materials
  • Knowledge of diamond properties and structure
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of photon absorption in different materials
  • Explore the effects of ionizing radiation on various substances
  • Study the long-term effects of sunlight on organic and inorganic materials
  • Investigate the physics of light propagation in different media
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Physicists, materials scientists, and anyone interested in the interactions between light and matter, particularly in the context of optical materials like diamonds.

Theheretic
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Hello all.

My understanding of why light will "slow down" when going through a medium such as let's say a diamond is because it only appears to slow down. In reality the photons are absorbed by the electrons in the medium (let's say diamond) and then those electrons of the diamond re-emit new photons of light. So in reality the original beam of light is not slowed down but gradually absorbed and the new beam that comes out the other side of the diamond is comprised of new photons emitted from the electrons of the diamond particles.
But the question is, if the photons that enter the diamond are absorbed and cause the diamond to give off new photons, does the diamond lose any sort of mass (as infinitesimal as I realize it would be). So is it conceivable that a light shone on a diamond for billions or trillions or quadrillions of years will eventually "erode" that diamond in the same way that water erodes rocks by causing the diamond to lose electrons a little at a time?
 
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The premise is incorrect:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showpost.php?p=899393&postcount=4

and so is the supposed loss of mass...

On the other hand radiation does affect materials...sunlight (radiation) fades curtains, nuclear fission radiation deterioritates container metals, ionizing radiation can damage electronic circuits due to current spikes, and so forth.
 
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