So what does a single photon do to a group of charged particles?

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SUMMARY

A photon interacts with charged particles by colliding with them, resulting in the absorption of the photon and the transfer of its energy into the kinetic energy of the struck particle. This process does not involve an extended set of electric (E) and magnetic (B) fields surrounding the photon, as photons are quantum objects. The interaction can also lead to the creation of additional particles, depending on the energy involved. This discussion clarifies misconceptions about the behavior of photons in relation to charged particles.

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  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals
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  • Knowledge of charged particle dynamics
  • Basic principles of particle physics
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  • Study quantum electrodynamics (QED) for detailed photon interactions
  • Explore the concept of particle absorption and energy transfer
  • Research the creation of particles from high-energy photon collisions
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jaydnul
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I have heard, but never seen a representation, that we know the characteristics of photons because of their reaction with other charges particles. So what exact physical motions are induced on the particles when a photon travels through them. Does the magnitude of the electric and magnetic fields pulse in a spherical way, so the particles may move in a uniform way from the photon, the distance of the radius depending on the strength of the fields? Does this make sense?
 
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Does this make sense?
No it does not. We are really developing an extensive mythology here! As pointed out elsewhere, a photon is a quantum object. It is not accompanied by an extended set of E and B fields. When it interacts, it collides with a single particle and is absorbed by it. The energy it had goes into kinetic energy of the struck particle and also possibly creating other particles.
 

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