Photon observed to be behaving as a particle

In summary, a photon is a particle of light with no mass or charge that behaves as a both a particle and a wave. It differs from other particles in that it always travels at the speed of light and has wave-like properties. The behavior of a photon is important in modern technology and our understanding of the universe.
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Haldhad
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I thought you might find this interesting. I'm not sure it fundamentally changes any interpretation issues but it does have some intriguing possibilities both for future experiments and the philosophical issues, particularly those who favour particle models. Full article here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-13626587
 
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FAQ: Photon observed to be behaving as a particle

What is a photon?

A photon is a fundamental particle of light that carries energy and has no mass or charge. It is the basic unit of all electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, infrared, ultraviolet, and X-rays.

How does a photon behave as a particle?

A photon behaves as a particle in certain situations, such as when it interacts with matter or when its energy is measured. This means that it has a discrete amount of energy and can act like a tiny, indivisible object.

How is a photon different from other particles?

Unlike other particles, a photon has no rest mass and always travels at the speed of light in a vacuum. It also has wave-like properties, such as wavelength and frequency, which are related to its energy.

Can a photon also behave as a wave?

Yes, a photon can also exhibit wave-like behavior. This is known as wave-particle duality, which is a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics. The behavior of a photon depends on the experimental setup and the type of measurement being performed.

How is the behavior of a photon important in modern technology?

The behavior of a photon is crucial in many modern technologies, such as lasers, solar cells, and fiber optics. It also plays a significant role in our understanding of the universe, as it is the carrier of electromagnetic force and plays a role in interactions between particles.

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