Particle deflection in a Stern-Gerlach experiment

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conditions necessary for particle deflection in a Stern-Gerlach experiment, specifically focusing on the magnetic field strength and its gradient. Participants explore the implications of these factors on the sorting effect of atomic beams.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Sam questions whether there is a lower limit of magnetic field strength required for the sorting effect in a Stern-Gerlach device.
  • Kith emphasizes that the field gradient, rather than the magnetic field strength itself, is the critical factor for the separation of beams.
  • Sam expresses curiosity about the lack of a theoretical lower limit, noting that testing at very low energies may only produce infinitesimal perturbations.
  • Another participant points out that the resolution of the detector sets a practical lower limit on the spatial separation of the beams that can be achieved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the existence of a lower limit for magnetic field strength, with differing views on the importance of field gradient and detector resolution.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of "lower limit" and "infinitesimal perturbations," as well as the specific conditions under which the sorting effect is tested.

Sam McGowan
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In the case of a beam of atoms passing between opposed magnets in a Stern Gerlach device and being deflected by the field into two different directions with 50:50 probability, could someone please clarify for me if there is a lower limit of magnetic field strength for this sorting effect to occur?


This is my first post on the forum and I have had a browse for similar threads but please forgive me if I have repeated a previous question.

Thankyou,

Sam
 
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Thanks for the link, kith. I have had a closer look now and feel a bit closer to understanding this. I am curious because I have read that in principle there is no lower limit, but it seems that testing at very low energies merely results in infinetessimal perturbations.
 
Yes, it is simply your detector resolution which gives a lower limit on the spatial separation of beams which you need to achieve.
 

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