Can 1D Cavities Explain Free Space Physics in EM-Field Quantization?

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In summary, the conversation discusses how quantization of the EM-field is done in two different setups: a 1D cavity with no sources and free space with no sources. The speaker is confused about the connection between these two setups and wonders if the physics of free space can be expressed by 1D cavities. The other person clarifies that the cavity case is just a demonstration of the machinery used in the more complex full setup.
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Niles
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Hi

In all the books I've read on quantization of the EM-field, they do it 2 times: First they do it for a 1D cavity with no sources, which yields single-mode fields. Then they do it for free space with no sources, which yields multi-mode fields. I can't see the connection between these two setups. Somehow the physics of free space can be expressed by 1D cavities?


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  • #2
Niles said:
Hi

In all the books I've read on quantization of the EM-field, they do it 2 times: First they do it for a 1D cavity with no sources, which yields single-mode fields. Then they do it for free space with no sources, which yields multi-mode fields. I can't see the connection between these two setups. Somehow the physics of free space can be expressed by 1D cavities?
No. The cavity case is just a warm-up exercise for the more complex full thing, to demonstrate how the machinery works.
 

FAQ: Can 1D Cavities Explain Free Space Physics in EM-Field Quantization?

What is quantization of the EM-field?

Quantization of the EM-field refers to the process of assigning discrete values to the energy of the electromagnetic field. This is done to describe the behavior of the field on a microscopic level, where classical physics is no longer adequate.

How does quantization of the EM-field relate to quantum mechanics?

Quantization of the EM-field is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics. It allows us to describe the behavior of electromagnetic radiation in terms of discrete packets of energy called photons, rather than continuous waves.

3. What is the significance of quantization in the study of the EM-field?

Quantization allows us to better understand the behavior of the EM-field at the quantum level, which is crucial in many areas of physics, including quantum optics, particle physics, and quantum computing.

4. Can the quantization of the EM-field be observed in real-life?

Yes, the quantization of the EM-field has been observed in numerous experiments, such as the photoelectric effect and the Compton effect. It is also the basis for many technologies, such as lasers and LEDs.

5. Are there any unresolved questions or controversies surrounding quantization of the EM-field?

While the concept of quantization is widely accepted in physics, there are still ongoing debates and research surrounding its exact mechanisms and implications. Additionally, quantizing gravity and reconciling it with the quantization of the EM-field remains a major challenge in modern physics.

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