Energy of a Photon: Wavelength, Frequency, Intensity, Speed, Polarization

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The energy of a photon is primarily determined by its frequency, as expressed in the equation E=hf. Wavelength also plays a significant role since it is inversely related to frequency through the equation c = λf. The discussion highlights confusion over whether only one answer should be selected, but it is clarified that multiple properties can be relevant. Intensity and polarization do not directly affect photon energy according to the equations provided. Ultimately, both frequency and wavelength should be considered when determining a photon's energy.
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Homework Statement



the energy of the photon is determined by which properties:
a)wavelength
b)intensity of the beam
c)speed of pgoton
d)polarization
e)frequency

Homework Equations



E=hf=hc/lambda

The Attempt at a Solution



My first answer to this problem is E)frequency because of the equation E=hf. but then again, i thought about the equation c=lambdaf wherein the wavelength and frequency are related. And I'm confused because I only need to select an answer. would wavelength affect a photon's energy or is it dependent on its color? thanks
 
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The wavelength of a photo would certainly effect its energy, just as frequency does! The question says "properties" so I don't see why you can't pick both.
 
Hey there,
The question does state which properties so as far as I can see, you can select more than one answer. Does your original question say to state only one?

The Bob

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photon

P.S. I see someone got there just before I did. Sorry to repeat what's already been said.
 
Last edited:
The Bob said:
Hey there,
The question does state which properties so as far as I can see, you can select more than one answer. Does your original question say to state only one?

The Bob

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photon

P.S. I see someone got there just before I did. Sorry to repeat what's already been said.

I'm not sure, it's just kinda weird because there are questions like:
energy in a coiled wire is stored as:
a)charge b) potential diff c) magnetic fiels d)both a and b e) both a and c

in this question there's a choice of both a and b/a and c which is not present there. obviously, for this question, the answer's e.
 
If the formulae says it is both, which they do, then go for both.

The Bob
 
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