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Alright, thanks Studiot. I didn't think about induced waves in the antenna.
EM Wave Phase - Fewer Photons at 0 Degrees?
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the relationship between the phase of electromagnetic (EM) waves, specifically radio waves, and the absorption of photons by a receiver. Participants explore concepts related to photon density, the behavior of antennas, and the interaction of EM waves with matter, with a focus on the implications of phase on photon absorption.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants question the meaning of "phase" in the context of EM waves and its relevance to photon absorption.
- There is a discussion about whether fewer photons are absorbed when the phase is near 0 degrees compared to 90 degrees, with some participants suggesting that the energy available to move electrons may vary with phase.
- One participant proposes that all EM waves interact through photons, although detection at radio wavelengths is challenging.
- Another participant mentions the complexity of visualizing EM waves and their energy levels, particularly in reactive spaces where E and B fields may be out of phase.
- Some participants clarify that the rate of photons does not vary with the amplitude of the wave, emphasizing that phase is a way to specify the wave's position in time.
- Shot noise is discussed in relation to weak signals and the granularity of photon detection, with some participants noting that the energy of RF photons is very low and difficult to identify.
- There are differing views on the utility of quantum explanations versus classical models for understanding antenna behavior.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express uncertainty about the initial question and its implications, with no consensus reached on the relationship between phase and photon absorption. Multiple competing views regarding the nature of EM waves and photon interactions are present throughout the discussion.
Contextual Notes
Some limitations in understanding arise from the complexity of EM wave behavior, the definitions of phase, and the conditions under which photon detection occurs. The discussion reflects a range of interpretations and models without resolving the underlying questions.
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