This original statement/question:Vanadium 50 said:Compton scattering is not reflection. It is easiest to see reflection as a property of bulk electrons (for instance, as in a metal) rather than single ones.
An electron is a subatomic particle that carries a negative charge and is a fundamental component of matter. It is one of the building blocks of atoms and can exist in different energy levels orbiting the nucleus of an atom.
An electron re-radiates an electromagnetic wave when it absorbs energy from an external source, such as an incoming electromagnetic wave, and then releases this energy by emitting a new electromagnetic wave with the same frequency and polarization.
Electrons play a crucial role in the propagation of electromagnetic waves as they are responsible for absorbing and emitting energy, which allows the wave to travel through space. Without the re-radiation of electrons, electromagnetic waves would not be able to travel long distances.
No, not all electrons have the ability to re-radiate electromagnetic waves. Only electrons that are in an excited state, meaning they have absorbed energy, can release this energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation.
The re-radiation of electromagnetic waves by electrons is influenced by several factors, including the energy level of the electron, the type of material the electron is in, and the strength and frequency of the external electromagnetic wave.