Is there any absolute proof that photons exist?

In summary, the conversation discusses the frustration of trying to refute crackpot theories, which are often unfalsifiable and impervious to logical arguments. The example of a person denying the existence of light photons is given, and it is suggested that trying to use scientific evidence to refute such beliefs is often futile.
  • #1
Andew
I mean, look this stupidity: [Mentor's note - link to crackpot site deleted]
This guy denies that light photons exist, and that we are 'magically creating it' like cyclops X-Men
This is worst than flat-earthers, I wonder If there is some evidence or is it unfalsifiable, like solipsism? Because I want to refute him
 
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  • #2
Andew said:
Because I want to refute him
We do not discuss crackpottery here, even to refute it. Several reasons:
- If we did, we wouldn't be talking about anything else as the supply of crackpottery is apparently endless.
- It can't be refuted. Refutation depends on logical fact-based arguments, and crackpots are impervious to both.
- The positive and productive act of talking about what real science says generates enough work for the mentors and SAs already.
 
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  • #3
Ok, sorry about that
 
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Likes Hoophy
  • #4
Yeah, take it from someone who used to spend way too much time bickering with creationists, conspiracy nuts, and "evo-psych" MRAs. You will never convince these people of anything, and in fact you will most likely succeed only in strengthening their convictions because of the backfire effect: http://rationalwiki.org/wiki/Backfire_effect

Simply put, you can't use a logical and science-based argument on someone who is not interested in using logic himself and is dead-set on the belief that the scientists are in on the conspiracy.
 
  • #5
For example, E=hv is the energy of a photon in photoelectric effect.
You can also use Compton scattering related examples .
 

FAQ: Is there any absolute proof that photons exist?

What is a photon?

A photon is a fundamental particle of light that carries electromagnetic energy and has zero mass. It is the basic unit of light and is responsible for all electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, radio waves, and X-rays.

How was the existence of photons discovered?

The existence of photons was first theorized by Albert Einstein in 1905 as part of his theory of the photoelectric effect. The first experimental evidence for photons was provided by physicist Arthur Compton in 1923 through his studies on the scattering of X-rays by electrons.

Is there any direct evidence for the existence of photons?

Yes, there is direct evidence for the existence of photons. They have been observed and measured in various experiments, such as the photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and the double-slit experiment. Photons have also been detected and studied using advanced technologies like particle accelerators and telescopes.

Can we see photons with our eyes?

No, we cannot see photons with our eyes. Our eyes are only able to detect a small range of electromagnetic radiation known as visible light. Photons exist in a wider spectrum of electromagnetic radiation, including ultraviolet, infrared, and X-rays, which are invisible to the human eye.

Is there any absolute proof that photons exist?

While there is strong evidence and scientific consensus on the existence of photons, there is no absolute proof that they exist. However, their properties and behaviors have been extensively studied and confirmed through experiments and observations, making their existence a widely accepted scientific fact.

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