The discussion centers on the relationship between photon energy and electron size, specifically addressing misconceptions about the photoelectric effect. It is established that a photon does not have a size comparable to an electron; rather, its energy is absorbed by the entire solid material, leading to the excitation of conduction electrons. This process necessitates the involvement of the whole solid to generate conduction electrons, contradicting the notion that a photon is absorbed solely by individual electrons.
PREREQUISITESStudents and professionals in physics, particularly those focused on quantum mechanics and solid-state physics, as well as anyone interested in the interactions between light and matter.
Stephen Raj said:According to einstein's theory, energy of one photon is absorbed by one electron. Is this photon is smaller than electron? If not, why energy of photon is not absorbed by other subatomic particles.