Questions on Photon Excitations: Eigen-Modes & Boundary Conditions

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In summary, photons are considered to be "excitations of the EM field" and are eigen-solutions of the 1D wave equation. The boundary conditions for these solutions are unknown, but it is believed that a single photon can be a superposition of more than one mode. The solutions for photons can be either normal or complex modes. There are still questions about how a single normal mode can transmit information or energy. Recommended references for further reading include a piece by John Baez and a paper on photon properties by the University of Sheffield.
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exmarine
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I’ve seen references on here to photons being “excitations of the EM field”. I have a few questions about those “excitations”.
  • I assume they are eigen-solutions of the 1D wave equation?
  • What are the boundary conditions on the solutions?
  • Is a single photon a single eigen-mode, or a supper-position of more than one mode?
  • Are the solutions normal or complex modes?
The reason for some of the questions is that I don’t see how a SINGLE NORMAL mode can transmit information, energy, momentum, or whatever from one place to another.

Recommended references appreciated.
 
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Thanks for those two references. Near the end of the first is a link to another really nice one:http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/polopoly_fs/1.14183!/file/photon.pdf
 

Related to Questions on Photon Excitations: Eigen-Modes & Boundary Conditions

1. What are photon excitations?

Photon excitations refer to the process of a photon, a quantum of electromagnetic radiation, being absorbed or emitted by an atom or molecule, causing a change in its energy state.

2. What are eigen-modes in the context of photon excitations?

Eigen-modes, also known as eigenstates, are the quantized energy states that an atom or molecule can occupy after absorbing a photon. These states are characterized by a specific energy and quantum numbers.

3. What are boundary conditions in the context of photon excitations?

Boundary conditions refer to the constraints placed on the behavior of photons at the boundaries of a system. These conditions can affect the energy and propagation of the photons within the system.

4. How do boundary conditions affect photon excitations?

Boundary conditions can affect photon excitations by influencing the allowed energy states and propagation of photons within a system. They can also determine the probability of photon absorption or emission by atoms or molecules.

5. Why are photon excitations important in scientific research?

Photon excitations play a crucial role in various fields of research, such as quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and materials science. They allow scientists to study the behavior of light and its interaction with matter, leading to advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of the fundamental laws of nature.

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