4 ms·

That's the model of photon, not the photon itself. A mathematical photon cannot decay. What prevents a photon from hitting a quantum bump on its way between gal

by akomtu 5y ago

That's the model of photon, not the photon itself. A mathematical photon cannot decay. What prevents a photon from hitting a quantum bump on its way between galaxies and become an electron?

cozzyd 5y ago
Indeed ultra high energy photons "decay" by interacting with the CMB.
- ben_w 5y ago
  Using the word “decay” to include that feels like it can’t be right. But I’m not a proper physicist, just an amateur.
  - cozzyd 5y ago
    Yeah, you're right, it's not the right word at all!
    - ben_w 5y ago
      Good to know — I was worried I might have stuck my foot in my mouth when I looked at your profile and saw your profession.