Planck Length 1 Detector? Emitter?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of detecting and utilizing electromagnetic waves at the Planck length scale, specifically referred to as "Channel 1." Participants explore the implications of such waves, their potential dangers, and the feasibility of using them for data transmission. The conversation touches on theoretical, conceptual, and technical aspects of electromagnetic radiation and Planck units.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the existence and implications of a "Channel 1" that corresponds to a wavelength of one Planck length, suggesting it may not be a conventional or meaningful concept.
  • Concerns are raised about the energy levels of photons at the Planck length, with some noting that such photons would have extremely high energy, potentially in the gigajoule range.
  • There is a discussion about the terminology used in the context of electromagnetic waves, with some participants seeking clarity on the naming conventions and the nature of quantization.
  • Some argue that the idea of a shortest valid electromagnetic wave contradicts established understanding, as electromagnetic waves are considered to have continuous wavelengths.
  • Participants express uncertainty about whether it is possible to emit an electromagnetic wave that is "Planck-invalid," with suggestions that such emissions would require technology far beyond current capabilities.
  • There are differing views on the implications of Planck units, with some asserting that they are arbitrary constructs while others acknowledge their significance in theoretical physics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion remains unresolved, with multiple competing views on the validity and implications of electromagnetic waves at the Planck length scale. Participants express differing opinions on terminology, the nature of quantization, and the feasibility of certain theoretical concepts.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations in understanding the implications of Planck units and electromagnetic wave behavior, noting that current measurements are significantly larger than the Planck scale and that theoretical models are still in development.

  • #31
If those critera are not met does black body radiation then cease to be the same as thermal?
 
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  • #32
Sure, if the radiation is not in thermal equilibrium it's described by another state and thus you'll not measure a Planck spectrum.
 
  • #33
Silly Questions said:
does black body radiation then cease to be the same as thermal?
No, the radiation just ceases to be either thermal or black body (since "black body" and "thermal" mean the same thing for radiation).
 
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  • #34
So is there anything wrong with thinking that black body radiation, thermal radiation, and electrons changing energy levels are the same thing?

For the Planck length quantization to apply does the material radiating need to be in pure elemental form? I think I've been told in this thread that molecules have their own rules, but I wanted to make sure: quantization by Planck lengths only applies to the emissions from electrons changing energy levels within the energy shells of atoms, not the various hybrid orbitals of molecules?

Does this mean the inner walls of the black body apparatus need to be made out of elemental carbon? Black to absorb light and in element form to get the proper electron shells?
 
  • #35
Silly Questions said:
So is there anything wrong with thinking that black body radiation, thermal radiation, and electrons changing energy levels are the same thing?
Yes. Only the first two are the same thing. Electrons are not radiation. Also, individual electrons changing energy levels do not emit black body/thermal radiation.
 
  • #36
Can electrons change energy levels without emitting or absorbing a photon?
 

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