Why do photons repel one another?

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    Photons Repel
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the question of whether photons repel one another, exploring theoretical frameworks and interpretations related to photon interactions, particularly in the context of specific research papers and concepts like the two-level system.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the premise of photon repulsion, asking what leads others to believe that photons repel each other.
  • One participant references a specific article that discusses photon interactions but expresses confusion about the concept.
  • Another participant mentions a theoretical framework involving a two-level system (TLS) that creates non-linear interactions, suggesting that this leads to effective photon-photon repulsion.
  • Participants discuss the formation of atom-photon 'molecules' called dressed states or polaritons, which arise from coupling between atoms and photons in certain regimes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the nature of photon interactions, with some expressing skepticism about the idea of repulsion while others present theoretical models that suggest it is possible.

Contextual Notes

There are references to specific research papers that may contain assumptions or definitions that are not fully explored in the discussion, leaving some aspects unresolved.

psmarz
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Why do photons repel one another?
 
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psmarz said:
Why do photons repel one another?
What makes you think that they repel one another?
 
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070506160623.htm"

This article has me confused lol.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
It is theoretical...

I just do not understand how photons could repel one another if they are solid state.
 
The OP is talking about this paper: http://www.nature.com/nphys/journal/v2/n12/abs/nphys466.html"

Arxiv preprint: http://arxiv.org/abs/cond-mat/0609050

From this point on, I'll shut up and observe.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
D H said:
From this point on, I'll shut up and observe.
I'm way ahead of you. I found that paper earlier. Beats me!
 
Ok...

The two-level system (TLS) creates a non-linearity, causing an interaction between the photons (a repulsion).

By adding photons to a two-dimensional array of coupled optical cavities, each containing a single two-level atom in the photon-blockade regime, they form atom-photon `molecules' termed dressed states or polaritons.

The coupling between the atom and the photons leads to optical nonlinearities and an effective photon-photon repulsion.
 
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