The discussion revolves around the treatment of electromagnetic radiation effects on the Hamiltonian of matter as a perturbation. Participants explore the reasons for this approach, particularly focusing on the relative magnitude of radiation effects compared to other influences in various physical systems.
Participants express differing views on the significance of electromagnetic radiation effects, with some asserting they are negligible while others argue that a large number of photons could lead to significant effects. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the extent to which radiation can be treated as a perturbation.
Limitations include assumptions about the strength of electromagnetic fields, the conditions under which perturbation theory is valid, and the specific setups being discussed. The calculations and models referenced may depend on particular definitions and contexts that are not fully explored.
Ok, Thanks. But we have a great number of photons that seem to affect the system significantly. How about that? Am I wrong about that?Meir Achuz said:Each extra photon brings in a factor e^2, which equals 1/137 so "radiation is so little that is treated as a perturbation."
Did you calculate the values I suggested?hokhani said:Ok, Thanks. But we have a great number of photons that seem to affect the system significantly. How about that? Am I wrong about that?
In a very simple model, we can take the electric field of an atom proportional to [itex] q/r^2[/itex] in which q is the charge of nucleus and r is distance from its center. An electromagnetic wave is [itex] E=E_0 exp(-i\omega t)[/itex].I think we can consider [itex] E_0[/itex] as large as possible; can't we? Could you please guide me If I am wrong?mfb said:Did you calculate the values I suggested?