Revisiting the Planck/Einstein Formula: A Critique of E = hf and Its Implications for Redshifted Light
We start by reviewing how light is generated in classical electromagnetism. Consider a flow of electrons in a metal (e.g., tungsten) approaching an atom, Fig. 1. Between the flow of electrons and the atom, there exists a region with a low electric field. Electrons in this region reflect at both regions of high electrical fields, moving back and forth like in a dipole antenna, thereby producing electromagnetic waves in the form of light.
As the power to the tungsten increases and more electrons flow, the field in the flow region intensifies, reducing the length of the electron oscillation region. Meanwhile, the stronger electric field allows more electrons to exist in the oscillation region, thereby enhancing the current and consequently increasing the radiation energy. This explanation supports the observation that shorter wavelengths have higher energy, consistent with Planck-Einstein's theory. However, this relationship between energy and wavelength is specific to the described mechanism, suggesting the potential for light generation where amplitude and frequency can be controlled independently, diverging from the E = hf formula.
While this model acknowledges the wave-particle duality of light, it challenges the traditional view of photons as discrete entities but as components of classical electromagnetic wave [1]. It posits that light generation, similar to other electromagnetic waves, does not necessarily require the photon concept. The E=hf formula has profoundly shaped our understanding for over a century, but as we advance, it is crucial to remain open to new theoretical frameworks and revise outdated concepts. This paper aims to stimulate discussion and exploration of alternative perspectives on electromagnetic emission and light generation.
Revisiting the Planck/Einstein Formula: A Critique of E = hf and Its Implications for Redshifted Light
REDSHIFTER LIGHT
The redshift of a photon suggests its energy decreases as it travels through space, raising a key question: Where does the "lost" energy go? While classical physics dictates energy conservation, redshifted photons appear to lose energy, especially in the context of cosmological expansion, causing confusion about the fate of this energy.
This article shows this formula E = hf applies specifically to light emitted by tungsten bulbs and the Sun, rather than being a universal principle. The paper advocates treating light as a standard electromagnetic wave, like other forms of radiation, where amplitude can be controlled. Under this view, redshifted light should maintain its original amplitude, akin to how amplitude behaves in the Doppler effect for sound.
We start by reviewing how light is generated in classical electromagnetism. Consider a flow of electrons in a metal (e.g., tungsten) approaching an atom, Fig. 1. Between the flow of electrons and the atom, there exists a region with a low electric field. Electrons in this region reflect at both regions of high electrical fields, moving back and forth like in a dipole antenna, thereby producing electromagnetic waves in the form of light.
As the power to the tungsten increases and more electrons flow, the field in the flow region intensifies, reducing the length of the electron oscillation region. Meanwhile, the stronger electric field allows more electrons to exist in the oscillation region, thereby enhancing the current and consequently increasing the radiation energy. This explanation supports the observation that shorter wavelengths have higher energy, consistent with Planck-Einstein's theory. However, this relationship between energy and wavelength is specific to the described mechanism, suggesting the potential for light generation where amplitude and frequency can be controlled independently, diverging from the E = hf formula.
While this model acknowledges the wave-particle duality of light, it challenges the traditional view of photons as discrete entities but as components of classical electromagnetic wave [1]. It posits that light generation, similar to other electromagnetic waves, does not necessarily require the photon concept. The E=hf formula has profoundly shaped our understanding for over a century, but as we advance, it is crucial to remain open to new theoretical frameworks and revise outdated concepts. This paper aims to stimulate discussion and exploration of alternative perspectives on electromagnetic emission and light generation.
Revisiting the Planck/Einstein Formula: A Critique of E = hf and Its Implications for Redshifted Light
REDSHIFTER LIGHT
The redshift of a photon suggests its energy decreases as it travels through space, raising a key question: Where does the "lost" energy go? While classical physics dictates energy conservation, redshifted photons appear to lose energy, especially in the context of cosmological expansion, causing confusion about the fate of this energy.
This article shows this formula E = hf applies specifically to light emitted by tungsten bulbs and the Sun, rather than being a universal principle. The paper advocates treating light as a standard electromagnetic wave, like other forms of radiation, where amplitude can be controlled. Under this view, redshifted light should maintain its original amplitude, akin to how amplitude behaves in the Doppler effect for sound.
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