Photon Momentum: How Can It Exist With No Mass?

[nealh149]

If a photon is theoretically zero mass, how can it have any momentum at all?

I may just be missing some knowledge.

 

[robphy]

The photon is not a classical (i.e. Newtonian) particle.
Take a peek at, e.g.,
http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/physics/Photon.html
Here's an old thread which may be helpful
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=92814 (move to the middle of the page or so)

 

[Doc Al]

You might find this thread helpful: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=128476

 

[nealh149]

Thanks a lot guys, I understand it now. Seems it was just a lack of knowledge on my part.