Electric Field demonstration

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the interaction between coherent light, such as lasers, and uniform electric fields, specifically for a high school science project. It is established that two electromagnetic fields can superimpose without influencing each other unless their wavelengths are in exact opposite phase, which leads to cancellation effects. The coherent light will bend in the presence of a strong electric field, although practical applications of this phenomenon are limited by current human capabilities. The conversation highlights the complexities of phase relationships in light waves and their implications for optics demonstrations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of coherent light sources, specifically lasers
  • Basic knowledge of electromagnetic fields and their properties
  • Familiarity with wave interference concepts
  • Foundational principles of optics and light behavior
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of wave interference and phase relationships in light
  • Explore the effects of electric fields on light propagation
  • Investigate practical applications of coherent light in optics
  • Learn about advanced optics demonstrations involving lasers and electric fields
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school students, educators in physics, and anyone interested in optics and the behavior of light in electric fields.

That_0ne_Guy
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I'm a high school senior interested in completing a science project. I'm wondering what knowledge is necessary for me to understand the interaction between coherent light( like a laser) and a uniform electric field with the ultimate goal of constructing a model. The project will be a type of optics demonstration, but this one aspect is a giving me trouble.
 
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Well the standard answer is that two electromagnetic fields superimpose (i.e., add) without influencing each other. In layman's language, one beam of light will go right through another beam of light without any interaction. Same for static fields.
 


They will pass through one another as long as their wavelengths are not in exact phase with one another. It is difficult to achive exact phasing of wavelengths from two (or more) sources, however, it can happen. If they are in phase with one another, they will try and cancel each other out, usually resulting in some sort of static interferance or noise. The wavelength with the most power will usually win.
 
After rereading my reply, I realized I made a mistake. I said in it "as long as their wavelengths are not in exact phase with one another" when I should have said ' as long as their wavelengths are not in exact oposite phase with one another'.

Sorry about the mixup. I tend to get backwards at times.

If the wavelengths are exactly out of phase with one another, then they will try and cancel each other out.

Think Safe.
 
Two beams of light interacting with each other? I thought the question was with regards to a coherent light source interacting with an electric field.
The coherent light will bend in the presence of a strong electric field.
 
Originally posted by pallidin
Two beams of light interacting with each other? I thought the question was with regards to a coherent light source interacting with an electric field.
The coherent light will bend in the presence of a strong electric field.

Not in any electric field humans can produce! But wouldn't it be cool if we could make lens systems out of nothing but vacuum and radio waves.
 

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