Photon Energy Equation:
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The photon energy equation calculates the energy of a photon in electron volts (eV) based on its wavelength. This fundamental physics equation is essential in quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and photonics applications.
The calculator uses the photon energy equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation converts the energy of a photon from joules to electron volts using the fundamental constants of quantum mechanics.
Details: Calculating photon energy is crucial for understanding light-matter interactions, designing optical systems, spectroscopy analysis, and applications in quantum computing and photovoltaics.
Tips: Enter the wavelength in meters. The value must be greater than zero. For common wavelengths, remember that 1 nanometer = 10⁻⁹ meters.
Q1: Why use electron volts instead of joules for photon energy?
A: Electron volts provide a more convenient scale for atomic and subatomic phenomena where energies are typically very small in joules.
Q2: What is the relationship between wavelength and photon energy?
A: Photon energy is inversely proportional to wavelength - shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons.
Q3: How accurate are the constant values used in this calculator?
A: The constants used are standard values with high precision suitable for most scientific and engineering applications.
Q4: Can this calculator be used for all types of electromagnetic radiation?
A: Yes, the equation applies to all photons across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to gamma rays.
Q5: What are typical photon energy values?
A: Visible light photons have energies around 1.8-3.1 eV, while X-ray photons can have energies from 100 eV to 100,000 eV.