Why aren't molecular vibrations synchronized in a way that can be observed?

In summary, molecular vibrations never synchronize in a way that would make them macroscopically observable. This is because it is much easier to produce a non-quantum based process (a common or garden electronic oscillator) for producing coherent RF waves.
  • #1
limitkiller
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why are molecular vibrations never synchronized in a way that would make them macroscopically observable?
 
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  • #2
Why would you expect them to synchronize?

MRI has a process to synchronize some fraction of nuclear spins - enough to pick up a signal with a conventional antenna.
 
  • #3
limitkiller said:
why are molecular vibrations never synchronized in a way that would make them macroscopically observable?

Isn't this the same question as "Why don't all the waves in the ocean synchronize to make one big wave?"

As @mfb said, "Why would you expect them to synchronize?"
 
  • #4
limitkiller said:
why are molecular vibrations never synchronized in a way that would make them macroscopically observable?
The earliest practical examples of Stimulated Emission was with Microwaves. The MASER came before the LASER and in both cases, waves are produced in synchronism. You do need 'special' conditions for this to happen and it would never happen by chance because of the way the energy levels are naturally populated. It would be interesting to know the lowest frequency of stimulated emission that has been achieved. Probably something to do with thermal activity upsetting the population?
I did a search and found this PF link which suggests there is no actual lower limit. It's not done because it's much easier to produce a non-quantum based process (a common or garden electronic oscillator) for producing coherent RF waves.
 
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  • #5
limitkiller said:
why are molecular vibrations never synchronized in a way that would make them macroscopically observable?
That's not true. E. g., sound waves in solids are synchronised vibrations of the molecules. The term to look for is "collective excitations".
 
  • #6
limitkiller said:
why are molecular vibrations never synchronized in a way that would make them macroscopically observable?

What makes you think that they are not "synchronized"?

There are "normal modes" of vibrations in solids. And DrDu has pointed out another example.

Your starting premise is faulty. Rather than asking us to explain your faulty starting premise, it is wise to FIRST establish if that premise is true or false.

Zz.
 
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  • #7
mfb said:
Why would you expect them to synchronize?
If we had two magnets swinging on pendulums, I would expect them to synchronize after a while(Right?).

ZapperZ said:
What makes you think that they are not "synchronized"?

There are "normal modes" of vibrations in solids. And DrDu has pointed out another example.

Your starting premise is faulty. Rather than asking us to explain your faulty starting premise, it is wise to FIRST establish if that premise is true or false.
you are right. I was thinking about the vibrations that are due too temperature.
 
  • #8
sophiecentaur said:
and it would never happen by chance because of the way the energy levels are naturally populated.
How so?
 
  • #9
limitkiller said:
How so?
It's a while since I learned about stimulated emission but is it not true to say that a population inversion (necessary for lasing) is not a common natural occurrence?
 
  • #10
limitkiller said:
If we had two magnets swinging on pendulums, I would expect them to synchronize after a while(Right?).
Based on friction macroscopic objects have. There is no friction on the level of individual atoms because you can't heat their constituents.
 
  • #11
mfb said:
Based on friction macroscopic objects have. There is no friction on the level of individual atoms because you can't heat their constituents.
Assuming that there was no friction, wouldn't two magnets swinging freely parallel to each other eventually synchronize?
 
  • #13
Search Youtube for "Metronome Synchronization" , keep in mind they share a "floating" platform...
 

1. What is molecular vibration of solids?

Molecular vibration of solids refers to the microscopic movement or oscillation of atoms within a solid material. This movement occurs due to the kinetic energy of the atoms and is responsible for the thermal energy and properties of the solid.

2. How does molecular vibration affect the properties of solids?

The intensity and frequency of molecular vibration can affect various properties of solids such as thermal expansion, thermal conductivity, and specific heat capacity. It can also influence the mechanical and electrical properties of solids.

3. What factors influence molecular vibration in solids?

The strength of chemical bonds, temperature, and the size and shape of the solid's crystalline structure can influence molecular vibration in solids. Additionally, the presence of impurities or defects in the structure can also affect molecular vibration.

4. What techniques are used to study molecular vibration in solids?

Infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and neutron scattering are commonly used techniques to study molecular vibration in solids. These methods can provide information about the vibrational modes and frequencies of the atoms in a solid material.

5. How does molecular vibration differ in different types of solids?

The strength of chemical bonds, the arrangement of atoms, and the level of molecular interactions can vary in different types of solids, leading to differences in molecular vibration. For example, molecular vibration in ionic solids is different from that in metallic solids due to the nature of their bonding.

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