Electromagnetic waves and electrons

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether electrons emit electromagnetic waves, particularly focusing on the conditions under which this occurs and the context of different types of electrons, such as those in atoms versus other environments. The conversation includes questions about electron behavior and the mechanics of orbital transitions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the meaning of "which electron" when discussing electromagnetic wave emission, noting that all electrons are identical but can behave differently based on their context.
  • It is proposed that an electron in an atom does not emit electromagnetic waves while occupying its orbital but may do so when it transitions between orbitals, either emitting or absorbing energy in the process.
  • Participants express the need for clarity regarding the conditions under which electrons emit electromagnetic waves, with specific reference to their state (e.g., excited state) and environment (e.g., atom vs. cyclotron).
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of prior knowledge and self-study before asking broad questions, suggesting that foundational reading is necessary to engage meaningfully in the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that electrons can emit electromagnetic waves under certain conditions, particularly during transitions between energy levels. However, there is disagreement on the interpretation of "which electron" and the implications of their behavior in different contexts.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the need for clarity regarding the definitions and contexts of electron behavior, as well as the assumptions underlying the questions posed. There is an indication that some participants may not have a foundational understanding of the topic, which affects the depth of the discussion.

ahmedelsamra
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Does the electron emit electromagnetic waves?
 
Chemistry news on Phys.org
Which electron?
 
Borek said:
Which electron?

A normal electron
 
There is no such thing as "normal electron". All electrons are identical. However, depending on what they do, they either will, or will not emit electromagnetic waves. Hence you have to explain "which electron" you mean.
 
I mean any electron.
 
When will the electrons emit electromagnetic waves?
 
And what do you mean by ''which electron?'' Aren't all of the electrons identical?
 
They are identical, but an electron in an atom behaves differently from an electron in a cyclotron. So, which electron do you mean?
 
I mean an electron in an atom
 
  • #10
Not in a cyclotron
 
  • #11
Then the short answer is "no".

Longer answer is - it again depends. If the electron just occupies its orbital, it doesn't emit anything. If, for whatever reason, it jumps between orbitals - it either emits, or absorbs energy, typically in the form of EM radiation.
 
  • #12
How can an electron jump between orbitals?
 
  • #13
When it gets excited.

Sorry, but apparently instead of starting learning from a book and asking questions when you don't understand something, you decided we are your teachers.

We are not. EOT.
 
  • #14
ahmedelsamra said:
Does the electron emit electromagnetic waves?

ahmedelsamra said:
When will the electrons emit electromagnetic waves?

ahmedelsamra said:
How can an electron jump between orbitals?

Please do some reading on your own before asking overly broad questions here on the PF. We expect folks to put in some effort first to try to answer their own question. Here is a wikipedia page with much of the information you are asking about:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atomic_orbital

If you have *specific* questions about that reading, or about other sources of information on the subject, please ask them here, and show us what you have been reading.
 

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