Electron recoil from light emission

In summary, the conversation discusses the Abraham-Lorentz force, also known as the radiation reaction force, and whether it is the only recoil experienced by an accelerating charge. The participants also consider the scenario of an electron accelerating downwards and emitting a photon, and whether the electron will recoil to the left or simply slow down in the direction of motion. The speaker mentions that conservation laws would suggest the electron should recoil to the left, but the conversation also points out that a quantum approach may be necessary to fully understand the situation.
  • #1
Danyon
83
1
Is the Abraham-Lorentz force (Also called radiation reaction force) the only recoil experienced by an accelerating charge? Say an electron is accelerating downwards, and that a photon emitted from this electron travels right, perpendicular to the direction of motion of the electron. Does the electron recoil to the left? or does it simply slow down in the direction of motion?
 
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  • #2
I believe conservation laws would require that the electron recoil to the left some.
 
  • #3
Danyon said:
Is the Abraham-Lorentz force (Also called radiation reaction force) the only recoil experienced by an accelerating charge? Say an electron is accelerating downwards, and that a photon emitted from this electron travels right, perpendicular to the direction of motion of the electron. Does the electron recoil to the left? or does it simply slow down in the direction of motion?

You are using classical pictures for a situation that requires QED.

Thanks
Bill
 

Related to Electron recoil from light emission

What is electron recoil from light emission?

Electron recoil from light emission is a phenomenon in which an electron is ejected from an atom or molecule due to the absorption of a photon of light. This can occur in various processes, such as fluorescence, phosphorescence, and photoelectric effect.

How does electron recoil from light emission occur?

When a photon of light is absorbed by an atom or molecule, it transfers its energy to an electron in the system. This energy causes the electron to become excited and move to a higher energy level. As the electron relaxes back to its original energy level, it emits a photon of light and recoils from the absorption of the initial photon.

What are the applications of electron recoil from light emission?

Electron recoil from light emission has various applications in fields such as spectroscopy, imaging, and optoelectronics. It is also used in technologies such as solar cells, fluorescent lighting, and laser technology.

Can electron recoil from light emission be controlled?

Yes, electron recoil from light emission can be controlled by adjusting the energy of the incident photons and the properties of the absorbing material. This can be achieved by using different wavelengths of light and varying the composition and structure of the material.

What are the implications of electron recoil from light emission in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, electron recoil from light emission is a fundamental process that is used to explain the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level. It is also a crucial concept in understanding the wave-particle duality of light and matter.

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