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Energy-Wavelength Equation:
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The energy-wavelength equation describes the relationship between the energy of a photon and its wavelength. It is derived from Planck's equation and is fundamental in quantum mechanics and electromagnetic theory.
The calculator uses the energy-wavelength equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation shows that photon energy is inversely proportional to its wavelength - shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons.
Details: Calculating photon energy is essential in various fields including spectroscopy, quantum physics, photochemistry, and optical engineering. It helps determine the behavior of electromagnetic radiation and its interaction with matter.
Tips: Enter the wavelength in meters. The value must be greater than zero. For best results, use scientific notation for very small wavelengths (e.g., 5.0e-7 for 500 nm).
Q1: What are typical wavelength values for visible light?
A: Visible light wavelengths range from approximately 380 nm (violet) to 750 nm (red), which is 3.8×10⁻⁷ to 7.5×10⁻⁷ meters.
Q2: How does energy relate to frequency?
A: Energy is directly proportional to frequency: E = hν, where ν is the frequency. Since c = λν, the equations are equivalent.
Q3: What are common units for photon energy?
A: While Joules are the SI unit, electronvolts (eV) are commonly used in atomic and particle physics (1 eV = 1.602×10⁻¹⁹ J).
Q4: Why is Planck's constant important?
A: Planck's constant is a fundamental physical constant that relates the energy of a photon to its frequency, establishing the quantum nature of energy.
Q5: Can this equation be used for all electromagnetic radiation?
A: Yes, this equation applies to all photons across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to gamma rays.