Synchrotron radiation physics

Abstract

In this chapter we will discuss the physics underlying the emission of synchrotron radiation from relativistic electron beams. Synchrotron radiation is emitted when an electron beam is accelerated by electromagnetic fields. This occurs especially efficient in a particle accelerator and has been observed first in a synchrotron. We start with fundamental events and circumstances necessary to emit radiation. This includes the discussion of electron dynamics and its effect on the Poynting vector. Following this intuitive derivation, the radiation power and its spatial distribution are deducted from the basic principle. In a similar intuitive way, we derive a rough spectrum of the radiation which will be indicative for the broad spectrum of bending magnet radiation and the comparatively narrow spectrum of undulator radiation. While these introductory discussions are designed to familiarize the reader with the general characteristics, basic scaling laws, and parameters without going too deep into mathematics, such mathematics is used finally to provide the accurate physics of synchrotron radiation.