Is the Photoelectric Effect Proof That Light Is a Particle?

In summary, the photoelectric effect demonstrates that light can exhibit particle-like properties, as it involves the emission of electrons from a material when it absorbs photons of sufficient energy. This phenomenon supports the particle theory of light, suggesting that light consists of discrete packets of energy called photons. However, it does not negate the wave nature of light, leading to the concept of wave-particle duality, where light exhibits both wave-like and particle-like behaviors depending on the context.
  • #36
sss1 said:
But a photon can have any energy it wants? Whereas the energy of a wave needs to be a multiple of hf?
No. The photon's energy is determined by the frequency of the wave.
 

Similar threads

Concept about photoelectric effect
Replies
17
Views
835
Photoelectric effect calculation
Replies
8
Views
2K
Calculating Electron Emission and Reflection in the Photoelectric Effect
Replies
3
Views
1K
Photoelectric Effect Graph and Work Function Questions
Replies
25
Views
3K
Photoelectric effect and Compton scattering
Replies
5
Views
3K
I Question about the Photoelectric Effect and the Work Function of a Metal
Replies
5
Views
1K
Photoelectric Current: Max KE & Intensity Explained
Replies
19
Views
2K
Multiple choice conceptual question on the photoelectric effect
Replies
4
Views
5K
Interpreting I-V graphs in Photoelectric effect
Replies
3
Views
4K
I Influence of electron's kinetic energy disspation during photoelectric emission
Replies
3
Views
180

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top