Photons on a CCD Vs. the magnetic or electric vector?

In summary, the conversation discusses the behavior of light as both a particle and a wave, and how it is detected on a CCD. It is expected that if light were detected as a wave, it would create lines on the CCD representing entire wave-fronts. The direction of propagation of an electromagnetic wave is perpendicular to both the electric and magnetic vectors, and the Poynting vector defines the direction of energy flow. The process of detection is considered quantum or particulate in nature, and fields can only be detected through their interaction with objects.
  • #1
DavidReishi
67
1
If my understanding of the theory is correct, the fact that very low light is detected on a CCD at points demonstrates light's behavior as a particle. For, if light acted as a wave in this instance, we would see not points but vectors (lines) registered on the CCD, that is, representing entire wave-fronts. My question is this. Was it expected, if the light had been detected as waves, that the wave-fronts would've been detected along their magnetic vector, their electric vector, or both (forming a cross)? The question also pertains to light waves in general. Are they thought to deliver their energy in a particular way in relation to their magnetic and electric fields?
 
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  • #2
I think they both exist together. One without other is just unthinkable and impossible.
 
  • #3
The direction of propagation of an EM wave in free space is perpendicular to both the electric vector and the magnetic vector. The electric vector and the magnetic vectors are perpendicular to each other. The Poynting vector, which defines the direction of energy flow, is also perpendicular to both the electric and magnetic vectors, and hence points in the direction of propagation. This Wikipedia page has some nice plots showing the above.
 
  • #4
DavidReishi said:
If my understanding of the theory is correct, the fact that very low light is detected on a CCD at points demonstrates light's behavior as a particle. For, if light acted as a wave in this instance, we would see not points but vectors (lines) registered on the CCD, that is, representing entire wave-fronts.

Why would this create lines on the CCD?

DavidReishi said:
Was it expected, if the light had been detected as waves, that the wave-fronts would've been detected along their magnetic vector, their electric vector, or both (forming a cross)?

I don't think that the magnetic field vector creates a force in the direction of itself.
 
  • #5
I think the very process of detection is basically quantum or has particulate nature. propagation can be considered as wave but it defies detection. Fields can be pictured but not so called detected. What you call detection is interaction of fields which results in motion of some objects. Devoid of objects fields just permeate through space and are not detectable.
 

Related to Photons on a CCD Vs. the magnetic or electric vector?

1. What is the difference between photons on a CCD and the magnetic or electric vector?

Photons on a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) refer to the photons of light that are captured by the pixels on the sensor. These photons are converted into electrical signals and then processed to create an image. On the other hand, the magnetic or electric vector refers to the direction of the magnetic or electric field that the photons are traveling in. This vector determines the polarization of the light.

2. How do photons behave on a CCD compared to the magnetic or electric vector?

On a CCD, photons behave as particles of light, each carrying a specific amount of energy. They interact with the pixels on the sensor, causing the release of electrons that create an electrical signal. In contrast, the magnetic or electric vector determines the direction of the photon's oscillation, which affects its polarization and behavior.

3. How do CCDs detect different wavelengths of light compared to the magnetic or electric vector?

CCDs are sensitive to a wide range of wavelengths of light, from infrared to ultraviolet. This is because the material used to make CCD sensors can absorb a broad spectrum of wavelengths. In contrast, the magnetic or electric vector only affects the polarization of light, not its wavelength. However, certain materials and structures can interact with specific wavelengths of light based on their polarization.

4. Can the magnetic or electric vector affect the accuracy of a CCD's measurement?

The magnetic or electric vector can affect the accuracy of a CCD's measurement by altering the polarization of the light. If the light is polarized, it can affect the electrons released from the pixels, leading to an inaccurate measurement. To minimize this effect, scientists use filters and polarizers to control the polarization of light before it reaches the CCD sensor.

5. How do photons on a CCD and the magnetic or electric vector impact the quality of an image?

The quality of an image on a CCD is dependent on the number of photons that are captured and the accuracy of their measurements. The magnetic or electric vector can affect the polarization of light, which in turn can reduce the number of photons that are captured or alter their measurements. This can result in a lower quality image. Therefore, it is essential to carefully control the polarization of light when using CCD sensors for imaging purposes.

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