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Photon Energy Equation:
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The photon energy equation calculates the energy of a photon based on its wavelength. This fundamental equation in quantum mechanics relates the energy of light particles to their electromagnetic properties.
The calculator uses the photon energy equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation demonstrates the inverse relationship between photon energy and wavelength - shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons.
Details: Calculating photon energy is essential in various fields including quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, photochemistry, and optical engineering. It helps understand light-matter interactions and is fundamental to technologies like lasers, solar cells, and medical imaging.
Tips: Enter the wavelength in meters. For common light wavelengths, remember that visible light ranges from approximately 380-750 nanometers (3.8×10⁻⁷ to 7.5×10⁻⁷ m).
Q1: What is Planck's constant?
A: Planck's constant (h) is a fundamental physical constant that relates the energy of a photon to its frequency. Its value is approximately 6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ Joule-seconds.
Q2: Can I use different units for wavelength?
A: Yes, but you must convert to meters first. Common conversions: 1 nanometer = 10⁻⁹ meters, 1 micrometer = 10⁻⁶ meters.
Q3: How does photon energy relate to color?
A: Higher energy photons correspond to violet/blue light, while lower energy photons correspond to red light. Ultraviolet light has even higher energy, infrared has lower energy.
Q4: What is the relationship between energy and frequency?
A: Energy is directly proportional to frequency: E = h × f, where f is frequency. Since c = λ × f, we can also express energy in terms of wavelength.
Q5: Why is photon energy important in chemistry?
A: Photon energy determines whether light can initiate chemical reactions (photochemistry), break chemical bonds, or excite electrons to higher energy levels.