Questions on Photon Excitations: Eigen-Modes & Boundary Conditions

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of photons as excitations of the electromagnetic (EM) field, specifically focusing on their representation as eigen-modes, boundary conditions, and the implications for information transmission. The scope includes theoretical considerations and conceptual clarifications related to wave equations and photon properties.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether photons are eigen-solutions of the 1D wave equation and seeks clarification on boundary conditions for these solutions.
  • The same participant inquires if a single photon corresponds to a single eigen-mode or a superposition of multiple modes, and whether the solutions are normal or complex modes.
  • Another participant asserts that photons are not eigen-solutions of the 1D wave equation, but does not provide further elaboration.
  • Participants share references to external materials that may provide additional insights into the nature of photons and their properties.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is disagreement regarding whether photons can be considered eigen-solutions of the 1D wave equation, as one participant explicitly states they are not, while another assumes they are. The discussion remains unresolved on several key questions about the nature of photons and their modes.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the assumptions underlying the claims about eigen-modes and boundary conditions. There is a lack of consensus on the definitions and implications of normal versus complex modes in the context of photon excitations.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in the theoretical aspects of quantum mechanics, electromagnetic theory, and the nature of photons may find this discussion relevant.

exmarine
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I’ve seen references on here to photons being “excitations of the EM field”. I have a few questions about those “excitations”.
  • I assume they are eigen-solutions of the 1D wave equation?
  • What are the boundary conditions on the solutions?
  • Is a single photon a single eigen-mode, or a supper-position of more than one mode?
  • Are the solutions normal or complex modes?
The reason for some of the questions is that I don’t see how a SINGLE NORMAL mode can transmit information, energy, momentum, or whatever from one place to another.

Recommended references appreciated.
 
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Thanks for those two references. Near the end of the first is a link to another really nice one:http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/polopoly_fs/1.14183!/file/photon.pdf
 

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