Where is photon located when it is not absorbed by electron?

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter rickyyeungyeung
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Electron Photon
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

A photon does not possess a defined position when it is not absorbed by an electron. According to quantum mechanics, the position operator applicable to particles fails for massless particles like photons. This indicates that photons exist in a state of superposition rather than occupying a specific location in space. The discussion emphasizes the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics regarding massless particles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with massless particles and their properties
  • Knowledge of quantum position operators
  • Basic concepts of superposition in quantum physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of massless particles in quantum mechanics
  • Study the role of quantum position operators in particle physics
  • Explore the concept of superposition and its applications
  • Learn about the behavior of photons in electromagnetic fields
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, quantum mechanics enthusiasts, and researchers exploring the properties of light and massless particles.

rickyyeungyeung
Messages
7
Reaction score
0
where is photon located when it is not absorbed by electron? Magnetic field?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
rickyyeungyeung said:
where is photon located when it is not absorbed by electron? Magnetic field?
A photon simply doesn’t have a position. The quantum mechanical operator that defines the position of a particle fails for massless particles.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: davenn and weirdoguy

Similar threads

  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
37
Views
6K