Understanding the Atomic Mechanisms Behind Light Deflection in Mirrors

[yyouth24]

Sorry for misconception. Why the mirror deflects light was the question? Because of the electronic configuration and how?

 

[easttiger2007]

I think a lot of math need to be done to answer your question. But qualitatively, if you take into account that light behaves like particle and abide by the mechanical equation of collision, and treat the surface atoms of the reflection material as rigid balls, you will get it quickly, though less rigorously.

 

[ice109]

all interfaces reflect, glass too. mirrors just reflect most of the energy where as glass doesn't

 

[waht]

When the photon of light strikes any surface, it will be absorbed by the atoms of that surface, and then those atoms will release new photons. Those newly created photons is what appears to be the reflected light.

 

[FredGarvin]

all interfaces reflect, glass too. mirrors just reflect most of the energy where as glass doesn't

You're right. I think I remember that plain glass has a reflection of around 4%. I'll have to see if I can dig that up.

 

[Doc Al]

I think I remember that plain glass has a reflection of around 4%.

That's about right. Assuming normal incidence and an index of refraction of about 1.5, you'll get about 4% reflection.

 

[ify7007]

I though tha glass only refracts and mildly reflects light. Could you educate me?

 

[Doc Al]

I'd say that 4% reflected is mild compared to 96% transmitted.

 

[loom91]

All of this is covered in detail in Feynman's sustained flight of genius, QED. He actually derives most of these effects quantitatively, in a popular science book! Feynman leaves Stephen Hawking panting by the roadside.

Molu

 

[ify7007]

So, where does 'deflect' come into play?

 

[Kristy234]

but if the atom absorbs the energy and the re-emits it at the same frequency, why does it re-emit in one direction. For example, take a perfect reflection mirror - the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection. How can this be explained on the atomic level?