Calculate the energy of this photon in Joules

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SUMMARY

The energy of a photon can be calculated using the formula E = h × v, where E is energy, h is Planck's constant (6.63 × 10-34 J·s), and v is the frequency of the photon. The frequency is determined by the equation v = c/λ, with c being the speed of light (approximately 3 × 108 m/s) and λ the wavelength in meters. For ultraviolet photons with a wavelength of 292 nm, the energy is significant enough to break DNA bonds, potentially leading to skin cancer. In contrast, green (510 nm) and red (630 nm) light have longer wavelengths, resulting in lower frequencies and insufficient energy to cause similar damage.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Planck's constant (6.63 × 10-34 J·s)
  • Knowledge of the speed of light (3 × 108 m/s)
  • Familiarity with the relationship between wavelength and frequency
  • Basic concepts of photon energy and its effects on biological molecules
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate photon energy for various wavelengths using E = h × v
  • Explore the effects of different wavelengths on DNA and cellular structures
  • Research the implications of UV radiation on skin health
  • Learn about the electromagnetic spectrum and its impact on biological systems
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or biology, educators teaching about photon energy, health professionals concerned with UV exposure, and anyone interested in the effects of light on human health.

jewilki1
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I have the answer to this question but I am not exactly sure how I got it. Can you explain this to me and show me how to work it.

a. When ultraviolet photons from the sun with a wavelength of 292 nm shine onto our skin they provide enough energy to break bonds in our DNA; this can result in skin cancer. Calculate the energy of this photon in Joules.
b. Why can't green light (510 nm) or red light (630 nm) give us skin cancer the same way ultraviolet does?
My answer : 6.858 x 10^-28
I do not even know if this is correct, it has been a while since this was done. I am studying and cannot remember it. Thanks.
 
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E = h \times v

Gives the energy of a photon E by multiplying its frequency v by Plancks constant h (6.63 \times 10^{-34})).

v = \frac{c}{\lambda}

Gives the frequency v of the photon by dividing the speed of a photon (the speed of light) c (about 3 \times 10^8) by its wavelength \lambda.

A bigger wavelength means a smaller frequency because the wavelength is inversely proportional to the frequency, and a smaller frequency means a smaller energy because the energy of a photon and its frequency are proportional.

Therefore green and red light which have bigger wavelengths will have smaller frequencies and so their photons will have less energy to break the bonds in our DNA and cause skin cancer.
 
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