Light is electromagnetic radiation that is visible as a small portion of the entire spectrum. It comprises photons, each with a unique wavelength and energy, exemplifying wave-particle duality.
Light is a form of electromagnetic radiation visible to the human eye and is responsible for the sense of sight. It consists of particles known as photons, which have distinct energy levels corresponding to different wavelengths or colors. This property follows the principles of quantum mechanics, where light can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like behaviors—a concept known as wave-particle duality.
Visible light is just a small part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes other forms of radiation such as radio waves, microwaves, infrared, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Each photon's energy can be described by its wavelength (λ) or frequency (ν), which determines its place in the spectrum. In practical applications, light's behavior is essential in designing devices like telescopes, where reflection and refraction are key properties utilized.
Learning Objectives
- Describe light by its frequency (ν) and wavelength (λ).
- Understand light as quantized packets of energy, photons.
Understanding light as electromagnetic radiation that can act as both a particle and a wave is crucial for grasping its fundamental properties and its role in diverse scientific applications.