Super-Magnet Sheds Light on Semiconductors

Stony Stevenson writes "A group of researchers at Florida state have demonstrated a magnet design that could shed new light on nanoscience and semiconductor research. 'The Split Florida Helix magnet can direct and scatter laser light at a sample down the centre of the magnet and from four ports on the sides. Due to become fully operational in 2010, the device can generate fields above 25 tesla. The highest-field split magnet in the world currently attains 18 tesla ... The scientists will be able to expand the scope of their experimental approach, learning more about the intrinsic properties of materials by shining light on crystals from angles not previously available in such high magnetic fields.'"

Comments

Re:Magnets BENDING light beam?!?!

[IronWilliamCash]

Did I miss something in science class? How is magnetism able to affect a beam of light? I'm presuming you either didnt go to your science classes or the last one you took was in grade 3

Re:Magnets BENDING light beam?!?!

[IronWilliamCash]

No, you're right. The summary is just awkwardly worded. Light is not affected by magnetic (or electric) fields since photons are neutral (no charge). You cannot deflect light with a magnetic field alone (although applying magnetic or electric fields to some materials can alter their refractive index and thereby change the deflection of a light beam passing through that material). Wow, does no one know that light is an electroMAGNETIC wave ????