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.
 

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