How can a photon have a frequency?

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SUMMARY

A photon possesses a frequency due to its wave-particle duality, which is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics. The energy of a photon is directly related to its frequency through the equation E=hf, where h is Planck's constant. This relationship indicates that each individual photon can be characterized by a specific frequency, which corresponds to its energy. Thus, it is accurate to state that photons, as quanta of light, inherently possess frequency.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with the wave-particle duality concept
  • Knowledge of Planck's constant (h)
  • Basic grasp of electromagnetic radiation properties
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of wave-particle duality in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the derivation and applications of the equation E=hf
  • Investigate the properties of electromagnetic waves and their relationship to photons
  • Learn about the role of photons in various physical phenomena, such as the photoelectric effect
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the fundamental properties of light and photons.

DiamondV
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Homework Statement


Im being told that each quantum of light(a photon) has energy which is equal to hf. (E=hf). Now what I don't understand is how can a photon have a frequency? Shouldnt the light wave(which is made up of quanta called photons) have the frequency and not the photon itself?
How is it possible for a single photon to have a frequency?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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DiamondV said:

Homework Statement


Im being told that each quantum of light(a photon) has energy which is equal to hf. (E=hf). Now what I don't understand is how can a photon have a frequency? Shouldnt the light wave(which is made up of quanta called photons) have the frequency and not the photon itself?
How is it possible for a single photon to have a frequency?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

Read this article, especially the first paragraph:

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

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