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Photon Momentum Formula:
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Photon momentum is a fundamental property of light particles (photons) that describes their motion and interaction with matter. Despite having no mass, photons carry momentum due to their wave-particle duality and energy content.
The calculator uses the photon momentum formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula derives from the relativistic energy-momentum relation and demonstrates that even massless particles can carry momentum proportional to their energy.
Details: Calculating photon momentum is essential in quantum mechanics, optics, and astrophysics. It explains phenomena like radiation pressure, Compton scattering, and the operation of solar sails in space exploration.
Tips: Enter photon energy in joules and speed of light in m/s (default value is 299,792,458 m/s). All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: How can photons have momentum without mass?
A: In relativistic physics, momentum isn't solely dependent on mass. Photons carry momentum through their energy and wave properties, as described by quantum mechanics.
Q2: What are typical photon momentum values?
A: Photon momentum values are extremely small. For example, a visible light photon has momentum around 10⁻²⁷ kg·m/s, which is why we don't feel light pressure in daily life.
Q3: How is photon momentum related to wavelength?
A: Using the relation E = hc/λ, photon momentum can also be expressed as p = h/λ, where h is Planck's constant and λ is wavelength.
Q4: What practical applications use photon momentum?
A: Optical tweezers, laser cooling, solar sails, and various spectroscopic techniques all rely on understanding and utilizing photon momentum.
Q5: Can photon momentum be measured directly?
A: Yes, through techniques like measuring radiation pressure or observing momentum transfer in Compton scattering experiments.