Light - What exactly is happening?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the nature of light and its propagation at the speed of light (c). Participants clarify that light does not accelerate to c; rather, it is always emitted at this speed, whether viewed as quantized photons or as electromagnetic waves. The conversation touches on Maxwell's equations and quantum electrodynamics (QED), emphasizing that light behaves as waves in the electromagnetic field, which do not require a physical medium for propagation. The complexities of perception and the instantaneous nature of light transmission are also explored, highlighting ongoing debates in physics regarding the fundamental understanding of light.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Maxwell's equations
  • Familiarity with quantum electrodynamics (QED)
  • Basic knowledge of electromagnetic waves
  • Concept of wave-particle duality
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Maxwell's equations in detail
  • Explore quantum electrodynamics (QED) and its implications for light behavior
  • Research the concept of wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics
  • Investigate the role of spacetime in electromagnetic wave propagation
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, students of physics, and anyone interested in the fundamental properties of light and electromagnetic theory.

  • #151
bobc2 said:
Perhaps the closest we could get to instantaneous would be within a Planck time.

Theoretically, and in relation to any physical meaning, I'd agree. All we need to do is increase the accuracy of the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4Pi_Microscope" some 1 x 1028 times over, then we're good :)

GrayGhost
 
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