Maximizing Photon Energy: Measuring Electron's Energy Potential

AI Thread Summary
An electron emits a photon when it transitions to a lower energy level, releasing energy equal to the difference between its initial and final states. The discussion questions whether it's possible to measure the electron's energy before the transition and the energy of the emitted photon. It clarifies that the photon does not necessarily use its full energy potential, as its energy corresponds to the energy lost by the electron during the transition. The misconception about electrons being "pumped up" in lasers is addressed, emphasizing that this process is separate from photon emission. Understanding these energy dynamics is crucial for comprehending photon creation and its energy implications.
Plastic Photon
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Yet another faster than light question...

So I was thinking the other day: an electron experiences a significant energy gain and as a result a photon is jetted. This is how the photon is created, no?

Ok then, I asked myself: is there a way to measure the energy level of the electron prior to the change in energy level (as it moves up), it's highest energy level before photon jetison and the energy of the photon once it has ben unleashed?

Is it all possible that the photon is not using its full energy potential if the amount of energy contained within the photon is not equal to that of the electron's energy level at its maximum before photon creation?
 
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You appear to have it a bit backwards there. A photon is emitted from an electron when it drops an energy level. Its energy is equal to that lost by the electron. You might have been misled by the fact that electrons in a laser are 'pumped up' prior to lasing.
 
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