Diffraction described by virtual particle momentum exchange: the "diffraction force"

Michael J. Mobley

doi:10.1117/12.906068

28 September 2011 Diffraction described by virtual particle momentum exchange: the "diffraction force"

Michael J. Mobley

Proceedings Volume 8121, The Nature of Light: What are Photons? IV; 81210I (2011) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.906068
Event: SPIE Optical Engineering + Applications, 2011, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Particle diffraction can be described by an ensemble of particle paths determined through a Fourier analysis of a scattering lattice where the momentum exchange probabilities are defined at the location of scattering, not the point of detection. This description is compatible with optical wave theories and quantum particle models and provides deeper insights to the nature of quantum uncertainty. In this paper the Rayleigh-Sommerfeld and Fresnel-Kirchoff theories are analyzed for diffraction by a narrow slit and a straight edge to demonstrate the dependence of particle scattering on the distance of virtual particle exchange. The quantized momentum exchange is defined by the Heisenberg uncertainty principle and is consistent with the formalism of QED. This exchange of momentum manifests the "diffraction force" that appears to be a universal construct as it applies to neutral and charged particles. This analysis indicates virtual particles might form an exchange channel that bridges the space of momentum exchange.

Citation Download Citation

Michael J. Mobley "Diffraction described by virtual particle momentum exchange: the "diffraction force"", Proc. SPIE 8121, The Nature of Light: What are Photons? IV, 81210I (28 September 2011); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.906068

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available