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Light Energy Equations:
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The light energy equations describe the relationship between a photon's energy, frequency, and wavelength. These fundamental equations are essential in quantum mechanics and electromagnetic theory, connecting the particle and wave nature of light.
The calculator uses the following equations:
Where:
Explanation: These equations show that energy is inversely proportional to wavelength - shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons.
Details: Calculating photon energy is crucial in various fields including spectroscopy, photochemistry, telecommunications, and understanding atomic and molecular transitions.
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 (6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s) is a fundamental physical constant that relates the energy of a photon to its frequency.
Q2: How are frequency and wavelength related?
A: Frequency and wavelength are inversely proportional through the speed of light: c = fλ. Higher frequency means shorter wavelength.
Q3: What units should I use for wavelength?
A: The calculator expects meters. Common conversions: 1 nanometer = 10⁻⁹ meters, 1 micrometer = 10⁻⁶ meters.
Q4: Can I calculate wavelength from energy?
A: Yes, you can rearrange the equation: λ = hc/E. This calculator focuses on calculating from wavelength, but the inverse calculation is possible.
Q5: Why is photon energy important?
A: Photon energy determines many light-matter interactions, including whether light can excite electrons, break chemical bonds, or cause other photochemical reactions.