Exploring the Energy Dynamics of Photons and Electrons

In summary, photons can transfer energy to electrons either by being absorbed or emitted. In the case of a bound electron, the whole energy is transferred, but for free electrons, only part of the energy can be transferred. This is known as the Compton effect, where individual photons collide with electrons and transfer some of their energy and momentum. This results in the production of new photons with less energy and a change in the direction of the scattered photons. The process is important for the study of gamma rays, but it is not possible for the same photon to be involved in both the absorption and emission of energy.
  • #1
scilover89
78
0
Photon"s energy

When photons trasfer energy to electron, can it transfer only part of its energy and not whole?
 
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  • #2
The whole energy.The photon is either absorbed,or emitted.If that didn't happen,then the vertex of QED would have at least 2 photonic lines...This is not possible,even if assuming one of the 2 photons were virtual.

Daniel.
 
  • #3
Hello scilover89,

If you have a bound electron (like in an atom), then the whole energy is transfered.
But for free electrons it is different. The photon can transfer only part of it to the electron.
"In the Compton effect, individual photons collide with single electrons that are free or quite loosely bound in the atoms of matter. Colliding photons transfer some of their energy and momentum to the electrons, which in turn recoil. In the instant of the collision, new photons of less energy and momentum are produced that scatter at angles the size of which depends on the amount of energy lost to the recoiling electrons."
from http://www.britannica.com/nobel/micro/138_88.html [Broken]
 
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  • #4
Nope.The photon dissapears completely.Take the 2 Feynman diagrams...
Daniel.
 
  • #5
Compton scattering is a photon in photon out process. Whether it is the same photon or a different one doesn't matter. The process is important for gamma rays.
 
  • #6
It's not the same photon.It can't be.

Daniel.
 

1. What are photons and electrons?

Photons and electrons are fundamental particles that make up the building blocks of matter and energy. Photons are particles of light, while electrons are negatively charged particles found in atoms.

2. What is the relationship between photons and electrons?

Photons and electrons are closely related in terms of their energy dynamics. Photons can be absorbed by electrons, causing them to gain energy and move to higher energy levels. Conversely, electrons can emit photons when they move to lower energy levels.

3. How do photons and electrons interact with each other?

Photons and electrons interact through the electromagnetic force. Photons carry energy and information, while electrons respond to this energy and can be affected by it. This interaction is essential for many natural processes, including photosynthesis and vision.

4. What is the role of photons and electrons in energy production?

Photons and electrons play a crucial role in energy production. Photons from the sun are absorbed by electrons in solar panels, causing them to move and generate an electrical current. In power plants, electrons are also harnessed to produce electricity through various processes.

5. How is the study of photon and electron dynamics important?

Understanding the energy dynamics of photons and electrons is essential for a wide range of fields, including physics, chemistry, and engineering. It allows us to develop new technologies, improve energy efficiency, and gain a deeper understanding of the natural world.

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