What causes faraday effect quantum mechanically?

In summary, the Faraday effect is the rotation of the plane polarization of light due to the presence of a magnetic field when passing through a transparent medium. The cause of this effect at the quantum level is still debated, with some suggesting it may be due to the Zeeman effect. Additionally, the final linear state of light is determined by the combination of R and L polarized states, which have different phase changes in the presence of the magnetic field. This results in electrons circulating in opposite directions and potentially altering the total magnetic field energy.
  • #1
Jerrynap
8
0
Hi guys,

I know Faraday effect is the rotation of the plane polarization of light when the light passes through a transparent medium and a magnetic field is applied in the direction of the propagation. What actually causes it at the quantum level? Is it Zeeman effect or something similar?

Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I hope I will be corrected if wrong. A linear state is equal amounts of R and L polarized states along with a phase difference determining the specific linear state? The R and L states have different phase changes on passing through the transparent medium from the magnetic field and so the final linear state will in general be different for the initial state. The R and L states make electrons circulate in opposite directions and either increase or decrease the applied magnetic field energy.

Edit, increase or decrease the total magnetic field energy.

This now has to be translated into mathematics.
 
Last edited:

FAQ: What causes faraday effect quantum mechanically?

1. What is the Faraday effect?

The Faraday effect is a phenomenon in which the plane of polarization of light is rotated when it passes through a material in the presence of a magnetic field.

2. How does the Faraday effect occur?

The Faraday effect occurs when a beam of light passes through a material with unpaired electrons, such as a transparent crystal or a gas. The magnetic field causes the electrons to move in a circular motion, which affects the polarization of the light passing through.

3. What is the connection between the Faraday effect and quantum mechanics?

The Faraday effect is a result of the interaction between light and the quantum mechanical properties of materials. The rotation of the plane of polarization can be explained by the quantum mechanical behavior of electrons in the presence of a magnetic field.

4. What factors affect the strength of the Faraday effect?

The strength of the Faraday effect depends on the strength of the magnetic field, the density of unpaired electrons in the material, and the wavelength of the light passing through.

5. How is the Faraday effect used in scientific research and technology?

The Faraday effect has various applications in scientific research and technology, such as in optical communication, optical isolators, and magneto-optic data storage. It is also used in studying the magnetic properties of materials and in determining the structure of molecules in chemical analysis.

Similar threads

I Is this a valid quantum Cheshire cat?
Replies
13
Views
1K
I Questions on the classical interpretation of (normal) Zeeman effect
Replies
10
Views
1K
I Polarization of photons quantum mechanically
Replies
3
Views
1K
A What is Faraday pulsation and how does it impact radiative transfer?
Replies
2
Views
857
I Exploring Electromagnetism & Quantum Mechanics
Replies
4
Views
2K
A Cause of spontaneous emission?
Replies
15
Views
2K
I Derivation of normal Zeeman-Effect
Replies
5
Views
1K
I Does spin orbit coupling cause the split in the energy level of the electron?
Replies
1
Views
2K
I The theory on the effects of polarizers on particles wavefunctions
Replies
6
Views
643
A Faraday effect breaks photon interaction laws
Replies
4
Views
804

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top