How many photons are produced when a 0.39 kg mass falls from a height of 2.9 m?

In summary, a 0.39 kg mass falling from a height of 2.9 m can produce 3.618x10^-10J of energy, which is equivalent to the energy of 6.89x10^11 photons with a wavelength of 5.5 × 10^−7 m. This can be calculated using the equations E=hc/λ and x=.5at^2, with the given values for Planck's constant and the acceleration of gravity. Finding power is not necessary for this calculation.
  • #1
NRip897
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Homework Statement


A 0.39 kg mass falls from a height of 2.9 m. If all of the energy of this mass could be converted to visible light of wavelength 5.5 × 10^−7 m, how many photons would be produced? The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s^2 . Planck’s constant is 6.63 × 10^−34 J · s, and the speed of light is 3 × 10^8 m/s.

Homework Equations


E=hc/λ
p=h/λ
x=.5at^2

The Attempt at a Solution


E=hc/λ=(1.99x10^-25)/(5.5x10^-7)=3.618x10^-10J
x=.5at^2 > 2.9=.5(9.8)t^2 > t=.769s

I think I need to find power but have looked everywhere online and we do not have textbooks to find it with the given data.
 
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  • #2
You don't need to find power. You could find it if you neglect air resistance but you don't need it.
You know the energy of a single photon.
You know the energy released in falling.
 

1. What are quantum energy levels?

Quantum energy levels refer to the discrete and specific energy values that an electron can possess within an atom. These energy levels are determined by the electron's distance from the nucleus and are represented by different quantum numbers.

2. How are quantum energy levels different from classical energy levels?

Classical energy levels are continuous and can have any value, while quantum energy levels are discrete and can only have specific values. Additionally, classical energy levels can exist at any distance from the nucleus, while quantum energy levels are restricted to specific distances.

3. What is the significance of quantum energy levels?

Quantum energy levels play a crucial role in understanding the behavior of atoms and molecules. They determine the electronic structure of atoms and dictate how electrons can move between energy levels, leading to the formation of chemical bonds and the emission of light.

4. How are quantum energy levels calculated?

Quantum energy levels are calculated using complex mathematical equations within the framework of quantum mechanics. These equations take into account the properties of the electron, such as its mass, charge, and spin, as well as its interactions with the nucleus and other electrons.

5. Can quantum energy levels be observed?

No, quantum energy levels cannot be observed directly. They are theoretical concepts that help explain the behavior of particles at the atomic level. However, scientists have developed techniques, such as spectroscopy, that allow for the indirect observation and measurement of quantum energy levels.

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