Question

Why does quantization solve the ultraviolet catastrophe?

A) Limits the energy levels of photons
B) Allows continuous energy distribution
C) Increases the intensity of ultraviolet light
D) Causes the ultraviolet catastrophe

Answer 1

Quantization solves the ultraviolet catastrophe by limiting the energy levels of photons.

Step-by-step explanation:

Quantization solves the ultraviolet catastrophe by limiting the energy levels of photons. In the classical physics model, known as the Rayleigh-Jeans law, the energy of electromagnetic waves inside a cavity could take on any continuous value. However, Max Planck introduced the idea of quantized energies to the oscillators inside the cavity walls, which restricted the energy values to only discrete amounts called quanta. This new approach prevented the infinite increase in intensity at short wavelengths and resolved the ultraviolet catastrophe.