Reflection from a moving mirror - a simple derivation using the photon model of light

TL;DR

This paper provides an elementary, photon-based derivation of the reflection effects from a moving mirror, emphasizing conservation laws and suitable for introductory physics education.

Contribution

It introduces a simple, dynamical photon model approach to analyze light reflection from a moving mirror, avoiding complex wave or relativistic concepts.

Findings

Derivation based on photon momentum and energy conservation.

Applicable to introductory physics without wave or relativity prerequisites.

Clarifies the physical principles behind moving mirror reflection.

Abstract

We present an elementary analysis of the effects on light reflected from a uniformly moving mirror by using the photon picture of light and the conservation laws for energy and momentum of the system photon-mirror. Such a dynamical approach to the problem seems very suitable for introductory physics courses, not requiring any previous knowledge in wave optics or special relativity.