Which Experiment Best Demonstrates the Particle Nature of Light?

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SUMMARY

The particle nature of light is best demonstrated by the ejection of electrons from a metal surface illuminated by light, known as the photoelectric effect. This phenomenon illustrates the interaction between light and matter, confirming light's particle-like behavior. The other options, including the scattering of alpha particles and the emission of blackbody radiation, do not effectively showcase this particle nature. The diffraction pattern from electrons and the continuous spectrum of a rainbow also do not serve as definitive evidence of light's particle characteristics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the photoelectric effect
  • Familiarity with blackbody radiation concepts
  • Basic knowledge of electromagnetic radiation
  • Awareness of particle-wave duality in quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the photoelectric effect and its implications in quantum mechanics
  • Explore blackbody radiation and its significance in thermodynamics
  • Investigate the concept of particle-wave duality in light and matter
  • Learn about experimental setups demonstrating the particle nature of light
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the fundamental properties of light and its interactions with matter.

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Homework Statement


The particle nature of light is best illustrated by which of the following?
1) The scattering of alpha particles from gold foil.
2) The fact that hot objects emit electromagnetic radiation.
3) The diffraction pattern observed when a beam of electrons is scattered by a crystal
4) The fact that a rainbow consists of a continuous spectrum of colors.
5) The ejection of electrons from a metal surface illuminated by light.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



My guess is #5 or #2, because they both have to do with electrons changing energy levels and emitting (or absorbing) electrons.
 
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Actually, #2 doesn't have to do with electrons changing energy levels. The EM radiation emitted by hot objects is called blackbody radiation, and it's a purely thermal phenomenon (it occurs in all sort of hot objects whether they have electrons or not).
 

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