Light Particles: Smallest Known Particles and Their Differences

In summary, according to the summary, light particles do exist, but they are not classical particles. The energy of a light particle is due to the volume of the particle, but if the volume is reduced to zero the energy level is undefined.
  • #1
Tyson
2
0
If light particles do exist, then would they be smaller than the smallest particles currently recognised? Also if light contains particles, are the paticles of kinds of light, for example ultra violet vrs red, different, or would they probably be the same particles moving under different circumstances?
 
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  • #2
The defining characteristic of photons is energy. Ultraviolet have more energy than visible, etc.
 
  • #3
Light particles do exists, but take note that they are not classical particles.
All fundamental particles are point particles, this includes for example electrons or quarks, the building blocks of protons and neutrons, or photons ("light particles").
So they all have the same size, none.
And as was already said color is commonly understood to go back to frequency of the light which means energy.
 
  • #4
Thinkmarble said:
Light particles do exists, but take note that they are not classical particles.
All fundamental particles are point particles, this includes for example electrons or quarks, the building blocks of protons and neutrons, or photons ("light particles").
So they all have the same size, none.
And as was already said color is commonly understood to go back to frequency of the light which means energy.
If a light particle (photon) is indeed a point particle with no volume, how can it have energy?
Here’s my thought, let's say the volume of a solid has an amount of energy, then the sum of the volume times its energy would equal some constant.
V*E=C therefore E=C/V
So, as the volume decreases the energy level will increase, but if the volume is reduced to 0, the equation is undefined. Ergo, how can a point of energy exist without volume? I presume the mass to have remained constant.
 
  • #5
The exact geometry of fundamental particles is unknown. Assuming they are points is a useful approximation. String theory asserts they are actually small strings, but this idea has a long way to go.
 

FAQ: Light Particles: Smallest Known Particles and Their Differences

What are light particles?

Light particles, also known as photons, are tiny packets of energy that make up electromagnetic radiation, including visible light. They are the smallest known particles and are responsible for the interactions between light and matter.

How are light particles different from other particles?

Light particles have unique properties that distinguish them from other particles. They have no mass, electric charge, or spin, and they travel at the speed of light. Unlike other particles, they do not decay or break down over time.

Can light particles be observed?

Light particles cannot be directly observed because they have no mass and do not interact with matter in the same way as other particles. However, their effects can be observed, such as in the form of electromagnetic radiation, which includes visible light.

How do light particles behave?

Light particles behave as both particles and waves, which is known as wave-particle duality. They can travel in straight lines, but they can also diffract and interfere with each other. This behavior is described by quantum mechanics, a branch of physics that studies the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level.

What is the significance of light particles?

Light particles play a crucial role in our understanding of the universe. They are responsible for the transmission of energy through space, and they enable us to see and interact with our surroundings. They also have many practical applications, such as in technology and communication systems.

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