Wave-particle duality

In physics, wave-particle duality holds that light and matter can exhibit properties of both waves and of particles. This concept is a key part of quantum mechanics.

Einstein and photons

In 1905, Einstein reconciled Huygens' view with that of Newton; he explained the photoelectric effect (an effect in which light did not seem to act as a wave) by postulating the existence of photons, quanta of energy with particulate qualities. Einstein postulated that light's frequency, ν, is related to the energy, E, of its photons:

Related Topics:
1905 - Einstein - Newton - Photoelectric effect - Quanta - Qualities - Postulated - Frequency - Energy

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:E = h u ,

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where h is Planck's constant (6.626 x 10-34 J seconds).

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