Reflection/refraction probability

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the probability of photon reflection and refraction as described in quantum electrodynamics, particularly referencing Richard Feynman's lectures. It highlights that when monochromatic light interacts with a surface of a material with a different index of refraction, some photons are reflected while others are refracted. The phenomenon is inherently random, with no method to predict which photons will be reflected or transmitted, aligning with the principles of quantum mechanics that Albert Einstein found troubling. Ultimately, the predictions of quantum mechanics regarding this behavior are accurate and reliable.

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I was watching Richard Feynman's lectures on quantum electrodynamics where he concerned the probability of photon to be reflected or refracted.

It is about, that since light incident on a surface is partially reflected and partially refracted, and light consists of photons, then what determines some photons being reflected and some refracted in a monochromatic light incident on a surface of material with different index of refraction.

Is there an explanation of this phenomena?


43:45 - 48:00
 
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There is no way to choose which photons are reflected/transmitted - nor any way to control it for a given setup.

This is the basic random aspect of QM which disturbed Albert Einstein ... the only explanation is that that is what QM predicts, and the predictions work.
 
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