"Comparing Formulas: E=p^2/2m and E=hf

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter alik
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    E=hf Formulas
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion compares two fundamental energy formulas: E=p^2/2m and E=hf. The formula E=p^2/2m represents the energy of a non-relativistic, non-interacting classical particle, where p denotes momentum and m is mass. In contrast, E=hf describes the total energy of a non-interacting quantum photon, with h being Planck's constant and f the frequency of the photon. Understanding these formulas requires contextual knowledge of classical mechanics and quantum physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Classical mechanics concepts, specifically non-relativistic kinetic energy
  • Quantum physics principles, particularly photon energy
  • Understanding of momentum and mass in physical equations
  • Familiarity with Planck's constant and its significance in quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of non-relativistic kinetic energy in classical mechanics
  • Study the principles of quantum mechanics, focusing on photon behavior
  • Explore the relationship between frequency and energy in quantum physics
  • Learn about the historical context and applications of Planck's constant
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, educators teaching classical and quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of energy in different contexts.

alik
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
What is the difference between formulas E=p^2/2m and E= hf ?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You cannot understand a formula without its context. The first E in reality means: Energy of a non-relativistic, non-interacting, classical particle. The second E refers to the energy of a non-interacting, quantum photon.
 
p^2/2m is non-relativistic kinetic energy
E=hf usually means total energy of a photon
 

Similar threads

Undergrad How Is the Planck Relation E=hf Derived?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Undergrad E=hf for massive particles, but which Energy exactly?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Undergrad MP2 vs. HF Method Explanation for Beginners
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
5K
Undergrad [QFT-Schwartz Page. 256] Violation of operator exponentiation rule ?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Graduate E=hf as energy of a particle (other than photon)
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
7K
Graduate Explicit construction of Galilean-invariant space
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Deriving the time-dependent wave equation from Energy eigenfunctions
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
High School Question about energy needed by electron to change energy levels
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Undergrad Some questions about the photoelectric experiment
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Undergrad Planck had 2 definitions of energy in 1900, how?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K