Chapter 12, Problem 1DQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:Wavelike and particle-like properties of substance has to be explained. Also, experimental verification for these views should be determined.

Concept introduction:Electromagnetic radiations are used to describe different forms of energies. They have mutually perpendicularly oscillating electrical and magnetic fields that are also perpendicular to direction of propagation in space.

Explanation of Solution

Matter can be represented in both wave and particle form. Waveform of matter can describe three properties of matter,wavelength $\left(\text{λ, lambda}\right)$ , frequency $\left(v\right)$ , amplitude $\left(A\right)$ . These waves are defined as electromagnetic waves that have mutually perpendicularly oscillating electrical and magnetic fields. Waveform of electromagnetic radiation can be observed as in energy from sun reaches earth and as in food heating in microwave oven.

Relation between frequency $\left(v\right)$ and wavelength $\left(\text{λ}\right)$ of wave is as follows:

  $v=\frac{c}{\text{λ}}$

Where,

• $c$ is the speed of light.

Particle form of electromagnetic wave can be described by energy packets called photons. Energies of these particlesare given by,

  $E_{\text{photon}}=\frac{hc}{\text{λ}}$

Where,

• $c$ is the speed of light.
• $h$ is known as Plank’s constant.

Particle nature of electromagnetic wave is observed ionization of electron from metal surface in photoelectric effect.