MadSci Network: Physics |
Hi, a 'plasmon' is nothing else that an coherent oscilation of the conduction electrons in a metal. I do not know if you have taken any course on Mechanics, but every mechanical system (for instance a system of springs) has a number of frequencies (system frequencies) in which all parts of the system can oscillate in phase. A 'plasmon' is nothing else that one of those collective oscillations, that affects the conduction electrons that move inside a metal through a background of 'fixed' positive ions. Similar oscillations are also found in a plasma (like those that exist in the sun, or in a tokamak), that are called 'plasma oscillations'. Hope this answers your question. Raul
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