Photons in Empty Space: Is Space Full?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a perfect vacuum and whether the presence of photons in space negates this idea. It is mentioned that space is never completely empty due to the presence of particles and radiation. Photons, being bosons, do not take up space like matter does, and thus cannot "fill up" a volume of space. However, it is possible for photons to be in superposition, meaning they can exist in multiple locations at once.
  • #1
binbots
170
3
If a sun is giving off photons in every direction in space, does that not mean that all of empty space is full of photons? I know photons have no mass but that still means it is not a perfect vacuum right?
 
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  • #2
It's correct that open space isn't a perfect vacuum because you can always find at least a few hydrogen atoms floating around. If you're still in the solar system you'll get whatever type of particles the sum is throwing off too, normally different types of radiation. I'm not sure if the presence of photons technically negates a vacuum though. My guess is no, you could in theory create a vacuum in a lab, shine a light though it, and its still a vacuum. I could be wrong though.
 
  • #3
Normally, "vacuum" is a word used for an absence (or low density) of matter. Photons are not matter.
 
  • #4
Since space is permeated by all kinds of radiation, not just visible light (microwave, radio, infrared), no volume of space will ever be devoid of photons.

As Dr. LoW points out, 'vacuum' refers to matter.
 
  • #5
Don't forget the zillions of neutrinos whizzing about...
 
  • #6
BTW, it is worth pointing out that photons, being bosons, can occupy the same space without bumping into each other, meaning you can't "fill up" a volume of space with photons. (This would explain why they aren't counted when assessing a vacuum. If you can forever fill a container with something, yet it is never full, then it might as well be empty.)


This is unlike matter (electrons, protons, neutrons), which is fermionic. Fermions take up space, meaning it is possible to "fill up" a volume of space with matter.


Neutrinos are leptons, so they do take up space, but since they are electrically neutral, they almost never interact with regular matter. I suppose, if you could figure out a way to manipulate them, you could fill up a volume of space with neutrinos.
 
  • #7
photons, once emitted, are not in any particular location.
 
  • #8
jnorman said:
photons, once emitted, are not in any particular location.

Not sure why you claim that. If the volume of space in question is enclosed by an opaque box, we can certainly say that a photon, once emitted, is inside (or, alternately, outside) the box.
 
  • #9
DaveC426913 said:
Not sure why you claim that. If the volume of space in question is enclosed by an opaque box, we can certainly say that a photon, once emitted, is inside (or, alternately, outside) the box.

Cant photons be in superposition?
 

FAQ: Photons in Empty Space: Is Space Full?

What are photons?

Photons are particles of light. They are the smallest unit of light and have no mass or charge. They travel at the speed of light and are responsible for electromagnetic radiation.

What is empty space?

Empty space, also known as vacuum, is the space between celestial bodies. It is not completely empty, as it contains particles and fields, such as photons, that can exist in a vacuum.

Is space full?

No, space is not full. It may contain particles and fields, but it is mostly empty. The amount of matter and energy in space is very small compared to the vastness of the universe.

How do photons behave in empty space?

Photons behave differently in empty space compared to other mediums. In empty space, they travel at the speed of light and do not experience any resistance. They also do not interact with each other, making them difficult to detect.

What is the significance of studying photons in empty space?

Understanding the behavior of photons in empty space is crucial for our understanding of the universe. It helps us study the properties of light and electromagnetic radiation, which are vital for many fields of science, including astronomy, physics, and telecommunications.

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