How Can Photons of the Same Size and Speed Carry Different Energy Levels?

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SUMMARY

Photons, despite having the same speed and being described as having no rest mass, can carry different energy levels based on their frequency, as defined by the Planck-Einstein relation E=hf, where E is energy, h is Planck's constant, and f is frequency. The concept of "size" in relation to photons is misleading, as photons are quantum particles that do not occupy a defined volume in the classical sense. Instead, their energy is determined solely by their frequency, not by any spatial dimensions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with the Planck-Einstein relation (E=hf)
  • Basic knowledge of electromagnetic radiation
  • Concept of wave-particle duality
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  • Study the properties of electromagnetic waves and their energy characteristics
  • Explore the concept of wave-particle duality in greater detail
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Students of physics, educators in quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the fundamental properties of light and energy transfer.

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How can a photon carry differing amounts of energy if it is the same size and speed as all other photons? Does this make any sese to anybody?
 
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What does "size" mean in reference to photons?
 
size of photons

mathman said:
What does "size" mean in reference to photons?

I assumed, perhaps in error, that in its particle state a photon would occupy a region of space of relatively regular dimension for all photons. If you think I'm an idiot, I'm only a student of physics not a master you know so asking me instead of someone else seems to perhaps be a bit of a mistake on your part.
:smile:
 

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