Photon Energy Equation:
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The photon energy equation (E = h × f) calculates the energy of a photon based on its frequency, where h is Planck's constant (6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s) and f is the frequency in hertz (Hz).
The calculator uses the photon energy equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation demonstrates the direct proportionality between a photon's energy and its frequency, as described by quantum mechanics.
Details: Calculating photon energy is essential in quantum physics, spectroscopy, photochemistry, and understanding electromagnetic radiation interactions with matter.
Tips: Enter frequency in hertz (Hz). The value must be positive and non-zero. The result will be displayed in joules (J).
Q1: What is Planck's constant?
A: Planck's constant (6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s) is a fundamental physical constant that relates the energy of a photon to its frequency.
Q2: How is this different from E = hc/λ?
A: Both equations calculate photon energy. E = h×f uses frequency, while E = hc/λ uses wavelength (where c is the speed of light and λ is wavelength).
Q3: What are typical photon energy values?
A: Photon energies range from about 10⁻²⁵ J for radio waves to 10⁻¹⁵ J for gamma rays, with visible light around 10⁻¹⁹ J.
Q4: Can I calculate energy for multiple photons?
A: Yes, for n photons, the total energy would be E = n × h × f.
Q5: Why is photon energy important?
A: It helps determine if a photon has enough energy to excite electrons, break chemical bonds, or cause other quantum effects.