1. What is the Photon Energy Equation?

The photon energy equation E = h × f relates the energy of a photon to its frequency, where h is Planck's constant. This fundamental equation in quantum mechanics describes the particle-like properties of electromagnetic waves.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the photon energy equation:

Where:

• \( E \) — Energy of the photon (Joules)
• \( h \) — Planck's constant (6.62607015 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s)
• \( f \) — Frequency of the photon (Hz)

Explanation: The energy of a photon is directly proportional to its frequency, with Planck's constant as the proportionality factor.

3. Importance of Photon Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating photon energy is essential in quantum physics, spectroscopy, photochemistry, and understanding light-matter interactions. It helps determine whether a photon has enough energy to excite electrons or break chemical bonds.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the photon frequency in Hertz (Hz). Planck's constant is pre-filled with its standard value (6.62607015 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s) but can be modified if needed for educational purposes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is this related to the wavelength equation?
A: Using the relation c = λ×f, the equation can also be written as E = (h×c)/λ, where c is the speed of light and λ is wavelength.

Q2: What are typical photon energies?
A: Visible light photons have energies around 10⁻¹⁹ J (or 1-3 eV). Gamma rays can have MeV energies, while radio waves have much lower energies.

Q3: Why is Planck's constant important?
A: Planck's constant is a fundamental constant of nature that sets the scale of quantum effects and relates energy to frequency in quantum systems.

Q4: Can this calculate energy in electronvolts?
A: To get energy in eV, divide the result in Joules by the elementary charge (1.602176634 × 10⁻¹⁹ C).

Q5: Does this work for all electromagnetic radiation?
A: Yes, this equation applies to all photons across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to gamma rays.