Definition: This calculator computes the energy (\( E \)) of a single photon of light based on its wavelength (\( \lambda \)), using the Planck-Einstein relation.
Purpose: It is used in physics to determine the energy of photons in applications like spectroscopy, quantum mechanics, and photonics, aiding in understanding light-matter interactions.
The calculator uses the relationship:
Where:
Explanation: Enter the wavelength of the light in the chosen units, and the calculator computes the energy of a single photon. Results are displayed with 5 decimal places, using scientific notation if the value exceeds 100,000 or is less than 0.0001. For the default input (\( \lambda = 500 \, \text{nm} \)), the calculated photon energy \( E \) is approximately 3.97606e-19 Joules.
Details: Photon energy is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics, describing the energy carried by a single photon of light. It is crucial for understanding phenomena like the photoelectric effect, laser technology, and the interaction of light with matter in scientific research.
Tips: Enter a positive value for the wavelength with up to 4 decimal places (step of 0.0001), ensuring \( \lambda \neq 0 \) to avoid division by zero, then click "Calculate." Results show the photon energy \( E \) in Joules, Electronvolts, Megaelectronvolts, Kilojoules, British Thermal Units, and Kilocalories. Values greater than 100,000 or less than 0.0001 are displayed in scientific notation with 5 decimal places. The default wavelength of 500 nm corresponds to green light in the visible spectrum.