From whence cometh the photon?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the origin of photons in the context of electron transitions between energy levels in atoms. It explores the nature of photons as they relate to elementary particles and electromagnetic fields, touching on both conceptual and theoretical aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the origin of photons when an electron transitions to a lower energy level, noting that electrons are considered elementary particles.
  • Another participant suggests that photons are created from the energy released during the electron's transition, indicating that they did not exist prior to this event.
  • A different perspective is offered, stating that photons are excitations of the electromagnetic field, which exists independently of the electron's transition. The transition creates a disturbance in this field that propagates as an electromagnetic wave.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present differing views on the nature of photons and their relationship to electrons and the electromagnetic field. There is no consensus on a singular explanation for the origin of photons.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes varying levels of technical detail and relies on different interpretations of electromagnetic theory and particle physics. Some assumptions about the nature of energy and fields are not explicitly stated.

Mediocrates
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Hi, I am a new member here. I am a non-physicist. I have been told that the electron is an elementary particle. I have been told that when an electron moves to a lower shell there is a photon emitted. If the electron is elementary where does the photon come from? Thanks in advance for your consideration.
 
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At a very handwavey-level: It is created from the energy released when the electron drops to the lower level. It wasn't around in any way, shape, or form before then.
 
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The photon is an excitation of the electromagnetic field, which was already present. The electron's transition between energy levels creates a disturbance in the EM field that propagates outwards as an EM wave. The photon is the means by which this EM wave interacts with matter.
 
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Nugatory said:
At a very handwavey-level: It is created from the energy released when the electron drops to the lower level. It wasn't around in any way, shape, or form before then.
Nugatory said:
At a very handwavey-level: It is created from the energy released when the electron drops to the lower level. It wasn't around in any way, shape, or form before then.
Thanks.
 

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