Photon radius and affected energy in double-slit experiments

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of photon "radius" and its implications in double-slit experiments. It is established that a photon does not possess a physical "radius," as it is a quantized wave packet whose characteristics depend on the coherence of the wave. The maximum slit spacing for maintaining the double-slit phenomenon is influenced by the frequency and propagation vector of the light source, with coherence being determined by the quality of the laser used. Additionally, the energy and frequency of the photon remain unchanged when it reaches the photosensitive sheet, preserving its initial properties.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with wave-particle duality
  • Knowledge of laser coherence and quality
  • Basic concepts of interference patterns in physics
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  • Research the effects of slit spacing on interference patterns in double-slit experiments
  • Explore the relationship between photon frequency and coherence length
  • Study the principles of wave packets in quantum mechanics
  • Investigate the role of laser quality in experimental physics
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Physicists, quantum mechanics students, and experimental researchers interested in the properties of photons and the dynamics of interference patterns in double-slit experiments.

gnarlan
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Hi all, these questions have nagged me for years and I have never found a text or a paper that even addresses them.

Regarding photon "radius", what is the maximum width that two slits can be spaced which still permits the double-slit phenomenon to occur? Would this be a valid method of determining photon "radius"? Additionally, is that maximum width dependent upon frequency or is it the same for all photons?

Relatedly, if at any point beyond the slits, we attempt to observe the photon, we of course lose our interference pattern. But, does the photon that arrives at the photosensitive sheet possesses the same energy-momentum as the "pre-split" photon?

I appreciate any insight from you experimenters our there :) Cheers.
 
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A photon does not have a "radius". It is the quantized version of a classical wave packet, and its size depends on how close the wave is to a pure plane wave. To obtain coherence over a larger distance you want a smaller spread in frequency and propagation vector. Experimentally this is determined by the quality of your laser.

The photon, when it reaches the screen, has the same frequency it started with, and the same energy.
 

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