Photon wavelength quantization?

Therefore, the possible wavelengths of photons do depend on the system they are in, specifically in optical resonators. In summary, photon wavelengths are not quantized in general, but in optical resonators their wavelengths are restricted to specific values depending on the length of the resonator.
  • #1
espen180
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Are photon wavelengths quantizised? If so, what are their possible wavelengths? Do their possible wavelengths also depend on the system they are in?
 
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  • #2
espen180 said:
Are photon wavelengths quantizised? If so, what are their possible wavelengths? Do their possible wavelengths also depend on the system they are in?

No, they are not. The "wavelength" of a photon (which btw is a slightly ambigous measure) is not quantized. The usual "classical" relation between frequency and wavelength (lamba=c/f) applies even to single photons; quantum mechanics only adds the relation W=hf for the energy of a single photon.
 
  • #3
Wavelength of a free radiation is not restricted. However, stationary waves in optical resonators have wavelengths quantised. Consider stationary wave in long metal resonator of the length [tex]l[/tex]. It can have only such a wavelength, for which the condition

[tex]
l = n \frac{\lambda}{2}
[/tex]

is satisfied for some whole integer [tex]n[/tex].
 

FAQ: Photon wavelength quantization?

What is photon wavelength quantization?

Photon wavelength quantization refers to the phenomenon where photons, which are particles of light, can only exist at certain discrete wavelengths. This is a fundamental property of light and is related to its wave-like behavior.

How is photon wavelength quantization related to the electromagnetic spectrum?

The electromagnetic spectrum is a range of all possible wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light. Photon wavelength quantization is a result of the discrete energy levels of photons, which correspond to specific wavelengths on the electromagnetic spectrum.

Can photons have any wavelength or are they limited to specific values?

Photons can only exist at certain discrete wavelengths, which means they are limited to specific values. This is due to the quantized energy levels of photons, which are determined by the frequency of the electromagnetic wave they represent.

Why is photon wavelength quantization important in understanding the behavior of light?

Photon wavelength quantization is crucial in understanding the properties and behavior of light, such as how it interacts with matter and how it travels through different mediums. It also helps explain the concept of color and the emission and absorption of light by atoms and molecules.

Are there any practical applications of photon wavelength quantization?

Yes, photon wavelength quantization has many practical applications in various fields such as telecommunications, imaging, and spectroscopy. For example, the quantized energy levels of photons are used in lasers and other optical technologies to control the emission and absorption of light.

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