Classical theory of light

In summary, the classical theory of light waves does not explain the existence of a threshold frequency because each "photon" has a specific energy and if this energy is below the threshold frequency, it will not emit electrons. Additionally, there are no photons in the classical theory of light waves.
  • #1
jasper10
55
0

Homework Statement




Why does the classical theory of light waves not explain the existence of a threshold frequency?


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not sure but I think that this is because each "photon" has a specific energy. If this energy is below the E = hf where f is the threshold frequency, it won't emit electrons.

Do all photons have the same energy supply?

Please, Help! thanks.
 
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  • #2
Hi jasper10! :wink:
jasper10 said:
Why does the classical theory of light waves not explain the existence of a threshold frequency?

I'm not sure but I think that this is because each "photon" …

Where do photons come in the classical theory of light waves? :smile:
 
  • #3
tiny-tim said:
Where do photons come in the classical theory of light waves?

What else would be the characteristics of the classical theory?

do you know any simple website? wikipedia is far too complicated and redundant.
 
  • #4
jasper10 said:
What else would be the characteristics of the classical theory?

You tell us. :smile:

(but there are no photons in the classical theory of light waves)
 
  • #5


I can provide some clarification on this topic. The classical theory of light, also known as the wave theory of light, explains light as a continuous electromagnetic wave. This theory was developed in the 17th and 18th centuries and was successful in explaining many properties of light, such as reflection, refraction, and interference. However, it failed to explain certain phenomena, such as the photoelectric effect, which led to the development of the quantum theory of light.

The classical theory of light assumes that light is a continuous wave with no discrete energy packets. However, experiments have shown that light can also behave as discrete packets of energy, known as photons. These photons have a specific energy, which is determined by the frequency of the light wave. The threshold frequency refers to the minimum frequency of light required to eject an electron from a metal surface in the photoelectric effect. This phenomenon cannot be explained by the classical theory of light because it does not account for the discrete nature of light and the concept of photons.

To answer your question, not all photons have the same energy supply. The energy of a photon is directly proportional to its frequency, as described by the equation E = hf, where h is Planck's constant. This means that higher frequency photons have more energy than lower frequency photons. Therefore, for the photoelectric effect to occur, the light must have a frequency high enough to provide the necessary energy to eject an electron from the metal surface.

In conclusion, the classical theory of light is a useful model for understanding many properties of light, but it fails to explain certain phenomena that require the concept of discrete energy packets, such as the photoelectric effect and the existence of a threshold frequency. The development of the quantum theory of light, which incorporates the concept of photons, provides a more complete understanding of the behavior of light.
 

What is the classical theory of light?

The classical theory of light, also known as the wave theory of light, states that light is an electromagnetic wave that travels through space and can be described by properties such as wavelength, frequency, and amplitude.

Who developed the classical theory of light?

The classical theory of light was developed by scientists such as Christiaan Huygens, Thomas Young, and James Clerk Maxwell in the 17th and 18th centuries.

What are the key principles of the classical theory of light?

The key principles of the classical theory of light include the wave nature of light, the ability of light to travel through a vacuum, and the fact that light can be reflected, refracted, and diffracted.

How does the classical theory of light explain color?

The classical theory of light explains color as a result of different wavelengths of light. When white light passes through a prism, it separates into different colors because each color has a different wavelength. This is known as the principle of dispersion.

How does the classical theory of light relate to other theories of light?

The classical theory of light is one of the earliest and most influential theories of light, but it has been further developed and refined by other theories such as the quantum theory of light. However, the classical theory is still used to explain many phenomena related to light and continues to provide a strong foundation for our understanding of light.

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