Exploring the Relationship Between Mass and Energy of Photons: h/λc

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between energy, mass, and momentum in photons. It is stated that the equation E=mc^2 only applies to massive particles at rest and cannot be applied to photons. The full equation for photons is E^2 = m^2c^4 + p^2c^2, and the momentum of photons can be solved for by setting m=0 in the equation E=pc. The conversation ends with a thank you and a reminder that this topic has been covered in one of their FAQs.
  • #1
Phys_Boi
49
0
If the energy of a photon: Ephoton = hν, where h = Planck's constant,
and E = mc2, then does hv = mc2

And if so, if c=vλ: Ephoton = hc/λ = mc2

Thus mass: m = h/λc ?
 
Science news on Phys.org
  • #2
##E=mc^2## only applies to massive particles at rest, not photons. You need to use the full equation which is
##E^2 = m^2c^4 + p^2 c^2##
 
  • #3
Khashishi said:
##E=mc^2## only applies to massive particles at rest, not photons. You need to use the full equation which is
##E^2 = m^2c^4 + p^2 c^2##
So what is the momentum of photons since gravitation is applied?
 
  • #4
Set m=0 and you get ##E = pc##. You can solve for the momentum of the photon.
 
  • #5
Khashishi said:
Set m=0 and you get ##E = pc##. You can solve for the momentum of the photon.
Ah. Thank you
 
  • #6
Please note that this has been covered and answered in one of our FAQ.

Zz.
 
Last edited:

1. What is the equation for calculating the mass of a photon?

The equation for calculating the mass of a photon is h/λc, where h is Planck's constant, λ is the wavelength of the photon, and c is the speed of light.

2. Why is the mass of a photon considered to be zero?

The mass of a photon is considered to be zero because it travels at the speed of light, which is the maximum speed possible according to the theory of relativity. As an object's speed approaches the speed of light, its mass also approaches zero.

3. Can the mass of a photon be measured?

No, the mass of a photon cannot be measured directly because it is so small and moves at the speed of light. However, its energy and momentum can be measured and related to its mass through the equation E=mc^2.

4. How does the mass of a photon relate to its wavelength and frequency?

The mass of a photon is inversely proportional to its wavelength and directly proportional to its frequency. This means that a photon with a shorter wavelength and higher frequency will have a higher mass.

5. What is the significance of the mass of a photon in modern physics?

The mass of a photon is significant in modern physics because it helps explain the behavior of electromagnetic radiation and its interaction with matter. It also plays a crucial role in theories such as quantum mechanics and the standard model of particle physics.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
804
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
13
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
6K
Replies
6
Views
5K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
827
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Back
Top