Plain-English Meaning
The energy of a photon is inversely proportional to its wavelength — shorter wavelengths carry more energy.
When a quantum question feels ambiguous, translating it into state, observable, probability, and evolution language usually clarifies the answer.
Deeper Explanation
The energy of a photon is inversely proportional to its wavelength — shorter wavelengths carry more energy.
Worked Example
Problem: Find the energy of a photon of green light (λ = 520 nm).
- E = hc/λ = (6.626×10⁻³⁴ × 3×10⁸) / (520×10⁻⁹)
- E = 1.988×10⁻²⁵ / 5.2×10⁻⁷ = 3.82×10⁻¹⁹ J
- E = 3.82×10⁻¹⁹ / 1.6×10⁻¹⁹ ≈ 2.39 eV
Result: E ≈ 2.39 eV
At A Glance
Category: Quantum
Levels covered:
Best use: Start with the formula meaning, then move to the worked example and quiz so the equation turns into a tool instead of a memorised line.