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Energy of Light Formula:
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The energy of light equation calculates the energy of a photon based on its wavelength. This fundamental physics equation relates the particle and wave properties of light through Planck's constant and the speed of light.
The calculator uses the energy of light equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation shows that shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons, while longer wavelengths correspond to lower energy photons.
Details: Calculating photon energy is essential in quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, photochemistry, and understanding electromagnetic radiation across the spectrum from radio waves to gamma rays.
Tips: Enter wavelength in meters. For common light measurements, remember: 1 nm = 10⁻⁹ m, 1 μm = 10⁻⁶ m. Wavelength must be greater than zero.
Q1: What are typical energy values for visible light?
A: Visible light (400-700 nm) has energies ranging from approximately 3.1 × 10⁻¹⁹ J to 5.0 × 10⁻¹⁹ J per photon.
Q2: How does this relate to electronvolts (eV)?
A: 1 eV = 1.602 × 10⁻¹⁹ J. To convert, divide the energy in joules by this conversion factor.
Q3: Can I use this for other electromagnetic radiation?
A: Yes, this equation applies to all electromagnetic radiation, from radio waves to gamma rays.
Q4: Why is the energy inversely proportional to wavelength?
A: This inverse relationship comes from the quantum nature of light, where each photon's energy is determined by its frequency (E = hf), and frequency is inversely related to wavelength (c = fλ).
Q5: What are practical applications of this calculation?
A: Used in designing lasers, understanding solar cell efficiency, analyzing spectroscopic data, and calculating radiation effects in various scientific and medical applications.