Naked Science Forum
Non Life Sciences => Physics, Astronomy & Cosmology => Topic started by: theThinker on 20/07/2019 17:42:43
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Let's assume an atom A emits a photon of energy E₁ = hγ₁. The photon is absorbed by another atom B moving with a velocity relative to A. Because of the Doppler effect, the frequency of the absorbed photon is γ₂ where γ₁ != γ₂. This means the absorbed energy is E₂ = hγ₂ and E₁ != E₂. This implies a violation of energy conservation.
Where is the error?
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You have done work by moving the second atom. It doesn't have to be a photon. Imagine a bullet fired from a stationary gun, hitting a moving target. The impact energy depends on the relative velocity of the bullet and target.
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Sweet thinking Alan