Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Coulomb Explosion Imaging as a Tool to Distinguish Between Stereoisomers
Published on: August 18, 2017
Electron Recoil via Sample Momentum Transfer in Optical-Mode Excitation
Akira Yasuhara1, Yamato Kirii2, Takumi Sannomiya2
1JEOL Ltd., 3-1-2 Musashino, Akishima, Tokyo, 196-8558, Japan.
Abstract:
The interaction between free electrons and optical modes underlies a variety of quantum and nanoscale light-matter phenomena, yet the associated momentum exchange with the sample largely remained overlooked. Here, we experimentally demonstrate the momentum transfer from free electrons to planar samples during optical mode excitation using momentum-resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy. The momentum transfer to the sample modifies the apparent dispersion relation which is significant when the planar sample is tilted. Under specific conditions, the sample receives momentum opposite to the electron beam direction.
Related Concept Videos
Molecular Spectroscopy: Absorption and Emission
UV–Vis Spectroscopy: Molecular Electronic Transitions
π Electron Effects on Chemical Shift: Overview
Interaction of EM Radiation with Matter: Spectroscopy
Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) Spectroscopy: Organic Radicals
Atomic Nuclei: Magnetic Resonance

