Understanding Electromagnetic Waves & Momentum

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the understanding of electromagnetic waves and their associated momentum. The key point is that light reflecting from a perfect reflector retains its initial momentum, resulting in double the initial momentum, while light absorbed by a surface loses all momentum. The confusion arises from relating electromagnetic momentum to mass, with the intensity of the wave suggested as a potential equivalent. For a comprehensive explanation, the Wikipedia page on radiation pressure, particularly the section on the Quantum Theory Argument, is recommended for further reading.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic waves
  • Familiarity with the concept of momentum in physics
  • Basic knowledge of radiation pressure
  • Introduction to quantum theory principles
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Wikipedia page on radiation pressure
  • Explore the Quantum Theory Argument related to electromagnetic radiation
  • Research the relationship between light intensity and momentum
  • Examine the principles of momentum conservation in electromagnetic interactions
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, researchers in electromagnetic theory, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the momentum of electromagnetic waves.

polaris90
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I have trouble understanding the concept of electromagnetic waves.
my textbook has the following explanation for electromagnetic momentum. It's not very clear to me.
[ light reflecting from a perfect reflector will leave the surface with its initial momentum, thus having twice its initial momentum.
Light being totally absorbed will have no momentum after absorption thus changing its momentum by its initial momentum.]
Since momentum is the product and mass of an object. How is this compared to electromagnetic momentum, what would be the mass in this case? My guess is the intensity of the wave. They also refer to it as just the electromagnetic radiation. Is their any difference?

Thanks in advance
 
Physics news on Phys.org
polaris90, Looks to me like each point you make and ask about are covered in a few short paragraphs on the wiki page:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radiation_pressure

Look down until you see the heading called "Quantum Theory Argument"

After reading and studying that if you have more doubts or questions, do come right back here and post them!

Cheers,
Bobbywhy
 

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