When photons enter a prism, they are absorbed by the glass molecules, transferring their energy to the glass. This absorption leads to the creation of new photons by the glass molecules, which results in the phenomenon of refraction. The timing of this process is crucial for understanding how light dispersion occurs within the prism. The discussion emphasizes the transformation of photons rather than viewing light as a wave packet.
PREREQUISITESStudents of physics, optical engineers, and anyone interested in the behavior of light as it interacts with materials like prisms.
The photons are immediately destroyed (absorbed by the glass molecules, giving all of their energy to the glass). Then the molecules in the glass work together to create new photons. This process has a particular timing that results in the refraction.meni ohana said:what is happening to the photons when they enter a prism?