How to calculate angular momentum per second for a photon?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the angular momentum transferred to a surface by a beam of photons with a specific polarization state, represented as |φ⟩ = |lₓ⟩ (3/5) + |lᵧ⟩ (4i/5). Each L-polarized photon contributes an angular momentum of ℏ along its direction of motion, while each R-polarized photon contributes an equal but opposite angular momentum. The total angular momentum added to the surface per second is determined to be Nℏ, where N is the number of photons transmitted per second.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics, specifically photon polarization.
  • Familiarity with angular momentum concepts in quantum physics.
  • Knowledge of the Planck constant (ℏ) and its significance in quantum calculations.
  • Basic principles of momentum transfer in physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of photon polarization on angular momentum transfer.
  • Learn about the conservation of angular momentum in quantum systems.
  • Explore the mathematical framework for calculating angular momentum in quantum mechanics.
  • Investigate practical applications of photon angular momentum in optical technologies.
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Physicists, quantum mechanics students, and researchers interested in the properties of light and its interaction with matter.

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Homework Statement


Given a photon polarization state lphi> = lx> 3/5 + ly> 4i/5 , a beam of photons transmit N photons per second in such a state. An L-polarized photon has an angular momentum hbar along its direction of motion, and an R-polarized photon has an angular momentum of the same magnitude but opposite to direction of motion. If the beam described by the particular polarization state phi above is totally absorbed by a surface, what angular momentum is added to the surface per second on the average?



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


So, I know the total angular momentum is Nhbar. I'm not sure if I have to calculate the direction perpendicular to the surface or the full angular momentum which would be Nhbar.
 
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The beam is "totally absorbed" ... how does a beam transfer angular momentum to a surface?
 

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