1. What is Planck's Equation?

Planck's equation (E = hf) describes the relationship between the energy of a photon and its frequency, where E is energy, h is Planck's constant, and f is frequency. This fundamental equation in quantum mechanics explains the particle-like properties of electromagnetic waves.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Planck's equation:

Where:

• \( E \) — Energy in joules (J)
• \( h \) — Planck's constant (6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s)
• \( f \) — Frequency in hertz (Hz)

Explanation: The equation shows that the energy of a photon is directly proportional to its frequency, with Planck's constant as the proportionality factor.

3. Importance of Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating photon energy is essential in quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, photochemistry, and understanding light-matter interactions. It helps determine the energy levels involved in electronic transitions and chemical reactions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in hertz (Hz). The value must be positive and valid. The calculator will compute the corresponding energy in joules.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Planck's constant?
A: Planck's constant (6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s) is a fundamental physical constant that relates the energy of a photon to its frequency.

Q2: Can this equation be used for all electromagnetic radiation?
A: Yes, Planck's equation applies to all electromagnetic radiation, from radio waves to gamma rays.

Q3: How is frequency related to wavelength?
A: Frequency and wavelength are inversely related through the equation c = λf, where c is the speed of light and λ is wavelength.

Q4: What are typical energy values for visible light?
A: Visible light photons have energies ranging from approximately 3.1 × 10⁻¹⁹ J (red light) to 4.1 × 10⁻¹⁹ J (violet light).

Q5: Why is energy typically expressed in electronvolts (eV) in physics?
A: Electronvolts are more convenient for atomic-scale energies. 1 eV = 1.602 × 10⁻¹⁹ J, which is on the scale of atomic energy transitions.