The discussion centers on the feasibility of trapping light indefinitely within a container. Participants conclude that while it is theoretically possible to slow down or temporarily trap light using techniques such as total internal reflection in optical fibers, no perfect mirrors exist to maintain light indefinitely due to energy absorption. The concept of trapping light in a mirrored box is impractical as all mirrors absorb some light energy, leading to eventual dissipation. Recent advancements in quantum memory suggest that light can be stopped and released later, but this is limited to very brief intervals.
PREREQUISITESPhysics educators, optical engineers, researchers in quantum optics, and anyone interested in the theoretical and practical aspects of light manipulation.
Grace-low said:If you heat a box to red hot then open a hole and shine red light in from a red lamp. Then close that hole and open another hole red light will come out. I don't know how to make sure it is the light that you shine in though.
No.Braincol said:If you had a sphere made of a material that took in light but didn't let it escape the sphere would the sphere heat up indefinitely? Resulting in infinite heat leading to infinite energy.
Braincol said:If you had a sphere made of a material that took in light but didn't let it escape the sphere would the sphere heat up indefinitely? Resulting in infinite heat leading to infinite energy.
Not true. There is currently no way to trap light indefinitely. I'm sorry but your explanation just doesn't make any sense and doesn't seem to be grounded in actual physics.Pep said:It is possible, but not as simple as trapping light with mirrors. First a box would never do, you need a sphere, Mirrors will never work, so we use energy to deflect the light, One could image it looking like a 3d David’s star, additionally the capsule or sphere in this case would have to be a bit more than a ball of mirrors, it would have to be surrounded by other elements and materials that protect the inner space of the sphere making it absolute neutral to all things, including radio, radiation, and air. capturing light would cause the sphere to reach extreme Temperatures, light can be captured indefinitely. It’s a pretty high tech thing :)