Photons (very newbie and simple question)

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In summary, a single photon does not have a width as it is described as a point particle with no definable size, unlike atoms which have a measurable width due to the distance between their point particles.
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earamsey
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What is the width of a single photon? I read that width of average atom is 1.3e-8 cm and wanted to know width of photon. Is the reason you can't view single atom is because it is smaller than a photon and will not reflect light or opposite true?
 
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A photon does not have a 'width.' It is described like any other particle, as a 'point,' with no definable size. It has a definable energy, but no 'size.'

I am anticipating your next question. What gives an atom size is the distance between the point particles inside, i.e. the electrons, and the protons. The protons and neutrons are made up of quarks, which are also point particles.
 
  • #3


The width of a single photon cannot be accurately measured as it does not have a physical size like an atom. Photons are particles of light that do not have a defined shape or size. They are considered to be point particles, meaning they have no physical dimensions. Therefore, it is not possible to determine the width of a single photon.

The reason why we cannot view single atoms is not because they are smaller than photons, but because of the limitations of our current technology. Atoms are much smaller than photons and cannot be seen using visible light. We are only able to view atoms using specialized equipment such as electron microscopes.

In terms of reflection, both photons and atoms can reflect light. However, the reflection of light by an object depends on its size and the properties of the material it is made of. Atoms are much smaller than photons and have different properties, which is why they reflect light differently.
 

1. What are photons?

Photons are tiny particles that make up light. They have no mass and travel at the speed of light. They are considered the fundamental unit of light and electromagnetic radiation.

2. How are photons created?

Photons are created when an atom's electrons move from a higher energy level to a lower one. This can happen naturally, such as in the sun or other stars, or artificially, such as in a light bulb or laser.

3. Do photons have different colors?

Yes, photons can have different colors depending on their wavelength. The shorter the wavelength, the higher the energy and the bluer the color. The longer the wavelength, the lower the energy and the redder the color.

4. Can photons be destroyed?

No, photons cannot be destroyed. They can be absorbed by matter, which can change their energy or direction, but they still exist in some form.

5. How do photons behave?

Photons have unique behaviors that are different from other particles. They do not experience time or have a fixed position, and can also exhibit wave-like properties. They also follow the principle of superposition, which means they can exist in multiple states at the same time.

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