Is Light Both Waves and Particles, or Something Completely Different?

In summary, light behaves as both waves and particles, exhibiting properties of both but not fitting into either category entirely. It can act like a wave in terms of diffraction and interference, but also has particle-like behavior. It is a unique quantum object that defies traditional classification.
  • #1
adjacent
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Why do light behaves as both waves and particles?Do it behave like both at the same time or one at a time?
 
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  • #2
adjacent said:
Why do light behaves as both waves and particles?Do it behave like both at the same time or one at a time?

Please read the https://www.physicsforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=209, and in particular, this FAQ entry.

Zz.
 
  • #3
can we extend this question a little further (yes I did read your link)..

What are some examples of photons acting like waves? The dbl slit seams like an obvious answer but if we look one particle at a time it never is a wave - it doesn't hit the screen in parts - just quanta. Why don't we say the chance of finding light somewhere is a wave but light is a particle?
 
  • #4
It is neither a wave nor a particle. It can have wave-like and particle-like behavior, but that's all you can say.

The typical wave-like properties are diffraction, interference, etc... i.e. look at all the properties of things we consider as waves, and light has the same characteristics.

Zz.
 
  • #5
Emissive said:
can we extend this question a little further (yes I did read your link)..

What are some examples of photons acting like waves? The dbl slit seams like an obvious answer but if we look one particle at a time it never is a wave - it doesn't hit the screen in parts - just quanta. Why don't we say the chance of finding light somewhere is a wave but light is a particle?

The best way to look at it, that I've ever heard, is that light, and all EM radiation, is not purely a wave or a particle, and it is not both. It is something completely different. It is a quantum object that does NOT behave according to our everyday experiences.
 

1. What is the difference between light waves and particles?

Light waves and particles are two different ways to describe the behavior of light. Light waves are a form of electromagnetic radiation that travel in a straight line and can be described by properties such as wavelength and frequency. Light particles, on the other hand, are tiny packets of energy called photons that have both wave-like and particle-like properties.

2. How does light travel through space?

Light travels through space at a constant speed of approximately 299,792,458 meters per second. This speed is known as the speed of light and is the fastest speed possible in the universe. Light travels in a straight line until it encounters an object or medium that causes it to change direction or slow down.

3. How do light waves and particles interact with matter?

Light waves and particles can interact with matter in a variety of ways. When light waves hit a surface, they can be reflected, absorbed, or transmitted, depending on the properties of the surface. Light particles can also be absorbed by matter, causing electrons to move and produce heat or light. Additionally, light particles can interact with each other, resulting in phenomena such as interference and diffraction.

4. What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all possible wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, including light waves. It includes a wide range of frequencies, from radio waves with long wavelengths to gamma rays with short wavelengths. The visible light spectrum, which is the only portion of the spectrum that can be seen by the human eye, is a small part of the overall electromagnetic spectrum.

5. How is light used in everyday life?

Light plays a crucial role in our everyday lives. It allows us to see and navigate our surroundings, provides us with heat and energy from the sun, and enables communication through technologies such as radio waves and fiber optics. Light is also used in various industries, such as medicine, telecommunications, and agriculture. In addition, it has many practical applications, such as lighting, photography, and entertainment.

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