Reflectivity metals at high frequency

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SUMMARY

Metals exhibit high reflectivity for visible light but become transparent at frequencies above their plasma frequency, which typically ranges from 10 eV to 30 eV. This phenomenon occurs due to the behavior of free electrons in metals, which can absorb and re-emit electromagnetic waves at certain frequencies. For further understanding, the free electron model provides a foundational explanation of the dielectric function of metals and their interaction with high-frequency electromagnetic radiation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of plasma frequency in metals
  • Familiarity with the free electron model
  • Knowledge of electromagnetic wave behavior
  • Basic concepts of x-ray physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the free electron model and its implications for metal conductivity
  • Study the dielectric function of metals at varying frequencies
  • Explore the relationship between plasma frequency and material transparency
  • Investigate applications of high-frequency electromagnetic radiation in materials science
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, materials scientists, and engineers interested in the optical properties of metals and their applications in high-frequency technologies.

paweld
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As is commonly known metals are good mirrors i.e. they reflect very well visible light.
I wonder whetehr is it true for frequency much higher then the frequancy of visible
light. Does exists the frequency for which metals are almost transparent?
 
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paweld said:
As is commonly known metals are good mirrors i.e. they reflect very well visible light.
I wonder whetehr is it true for frequency much higher then the frequancy of visible
light. Does exists the frequency for which metals are almost transparent?

Metals can be quite transparent for x-rays.
 
Yes, metals become transparent above the so called plasma frequency which ranges from about 10 eV to 30 eV in most metals.
 
Thanks for answers. Can you give me a referece for a model explaining the existence
plasma frequency in metals.
 
Last edited:

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