Can there be collision-less acceleration of electrons?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the concept of electron acceleration in the context of electron cyclotron resonance, specifically whether such acceleration can occur without collisions among electrons. The scope includes theoretical considerations and interpretations of existing literature.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the assertion that electrons can be accelerated without collisions, referencing the Wikipedia page on electron cyclotron resonance.
  • Others clarify that the statement does not imply a complete absence of collisions but rather that the cyclotron frequency is higher than the collision rate, allowing electrons to complete orbits before colliding.
  • It is noted that the mean free path of electrons is greater than the distance required to complete one orbit, which supports the idea of acceleration occurring between collisions.
  • Concerns are raised about the need for proper citations when referencing sources to avoid misinterpretations of the material.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the interpretation of electron behavior during cyclotron resonance, with no consensus reached on the implications of collisions in this context.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential misinterpretations of cited sources and the need for clarity on definitions related to collision rates and electron behavior in cyclotron resonance.

AAB1994
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In electron cyclotron resonance of metals/solids can there be electron acceleration without them engaging in collision ? I read the last para of electron cyclotron resonance wikipedia page which stated this
 
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AAB1994 said:
I read the last para of electron cyclotron resonance wikipedia page which stated this

You shouldn't say something like this in this forum without providing a directly link.

Zz.
 
It isn’t saying the electrons never collide. It is saying that the cyclotron frequency is higher than the collision rate so electrons can accomplish complete orbits between collisions.
 
As @Cutter Ketch has stated, it doesn't mean that there are no collisions. It means that the mean free path of the electrons is larger than the length it takes to make one complete orbit.

This clearly illustrates why we require exact citation of the sources. We don't know if you are reading a bad article, or if you're misreading and misinterpreting a correct article.

Zz.
 

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