Detecting Photons: Uncovering the Invisible Particles

  • Thread starter Keiran OConnor
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Photons
In summary, photons without mass can be detected using technology such as photomultipliers, photographic film, and even phone cameras. Despite having no mass, photons still have energy and momentum which allows them to be detected.
  • #1
Keiran OConnor
20
0
How can we detect photons without mass ?

In the experiment that was showing two photons hitting the detector when only 1 was fired through the slit, how did technology detect photons without mass to hit the detector ?
 
Science news on Phys.org
  • #2
Keiran OConnor said:
How can we detect photons without mass ?
In the experiment that was showing two photons hitting the detector when only 1 was fired through the slit, how did technology detect photons without mass to hit the detector ?
Google for "photomultiplier".
Or you can use a piece of photographic film. When you develop the film, you get a dot wherever a photon landed.

However, I'm not sure which experiment you mean when you're asking about "the experiment that was showing two photons hitting the detector when only 1 was fired through the slit"
 
  • #3
Your phone camera is a photon detector more common than PMT. Easy to Google.
 
  • #4
Keiran OConnor said:
How can we detect photons without mass ?

Photons still have energy and momentum, despite having zero mass. Thus they can still be detected.
 
  • #5
houlahound said:
Your phone camera is a photon detector more common than PMT.

And your eye is more common than your phone camera.
 
  • #6
And green leaves are more common than eyes.
 

FAQ: Detecting Photons: Uncovering the Invisible Particles

How do we detect photons using a camera?

Cameras detect photons by utilizing a light-sensitive sensor, such as a CCD or CMOS chip. When photons enter the camera's lens, they hit the sensor and create an electrical charge, which is then translated into an image by the camera's processing software.

Can we detect individual photons?

Yes, it is possible to detect individual photons using specialized equipment such as single-photon detectors. These detectors have high sensitivity and can detect even very low levels of light.

What is the principle behind detecting photons using a spectrometer?

A spectrometer works by breaking down light into its component wavelengths using a diffraction grating or prism. Photons of different wavelengths will produce different patterns on the detector, allowing scientists to determine the composition of the light source.

How do we detect photons in space?

In space, photons are detected using telescopes equipped with specialized detectors, such as charge-coupled devices (CCDs) or photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). These detectors are highly sensitive and can detect even very faint signals from distant sources.

How do we measure the energy of individual photons?

The energy of individual photons can be measured using a device called a photon energy detector. This detector uses a material that produces a small electrical current when struck by a photon. The strength of the current is proportional to the energy of the photon, allowing scientists to measure its energy level.

Similar threads

I Exploring Particle/Wave Duality in Photons
Replies
12
Views
2K
A Thought experiments suggest problem with published work
Replies
8
Views
1K
I Problem with the polarization of entangled photons
Replies
7
Views
1K
I Light coupling in fiber optic cables
Replies
22
Views
2K
I Have You Heard of the SEW Experiment? Thoughts?
Replies
2
Views
902
I Measurement and Thermal Effects Similar?
Replies
18
Views
2K
A A double slit thought experiment leading to a paradox
Replies
4
Views
1K
I Elitzur–Vaidman bomb tester in multi-world interpretation
Replies
21
Views
3K
A Fisher information from likelihood function for quantum circuits
Replies
0
Views
632
I How Does a Photon Know Which Slit to Pass Through in a Double Slit Experiment?
Replies
5
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top