Understanding Specular Reflection: QED Explanation & Material Differences

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The discussion centers on the quantum electrodynamics (QED) explanation for specular reflection of light, questioning how photons, when interacting with electrons, can be emitted in specific directions rather than randomly. It highlights the contrast between diffuse and specular reflections, suggesting that the latter requires a different understanding. The conversation also touches on material properties that influence specular reflection, specifically noting that mercury (Hg) is an excellent specular reflector. Participants recommend consulting Feynman's book "QED" for deeper insights into these phenomena. Overall, the thread emphasizes the complexity of light reflection and the role of material characteristics in determining reflection quality.
DanP
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What is the QED explanation for specular reflection of light ?

I mean, if photons interact with electrons, and a photon is re-emitted, I assume it can be emitted in any direction whatsoever. So this might work great for diffuse reflections. But what about specular reflections? How are they accounted for ?

Also, what makes material different in terms of how well they do speculary reflect light ? For example why Hg makes such a great specular reflector ?
 
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Feynman's book "QED" will supply answers to your questions.
 
mathman said:
Feynman's book "QED" will supply answers to your questions.

Guess then Ill wait till I finish the the book to satisfy my curiosity =)
 

Thread 'Two equivalent statements of time reversal symmetric Hamiltonian'

Time reversal invariant Hamiltonians must satisfy ##[H,\Theta]=0## where ##\Theta## is time reversal operator. However, in some texts (for example see Many-body Quantum Theory in Condensed Matter Physics an introduction, HENRIK BRUUS and KARSTEN FLENSBERG, Corrected version: 14 January 2016, section 7.1.4) the time reversal invariant condition is introduced as ##H=H^*##. How these two conditions are identical?
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