Why Does the Classical Theory of Light Fail to Explain the Threshold Frequency?

[jasper10]

Homework Statement

Why does the classical theory of light waves not explain the existence of a threshold frequency?

The Attempt at a Solution

I'm not sure but I think that this is because each "photon" has a specific energy. If this energy is below the E = hf where f is the threshold frequency, it won't emit electrons.

Do all photons have the same energy supply?

Please, Help! thanks.

 

[tiny-tim]

Hi jasper10!

Why does the classical theory of light waves not explain the existence of a threshold frequency?
…
I'm not sure but I think that this is because each "photon" …

Where do photons come in the classical theory of light waves?

 

[jasper10]

Where do photons come in the classical theory of light waves?

What else would be the characteristics of the classical theory?

do you know any simple website? wikipedia is far too complicated and redundant.

 

[tiny-tim]

What else would be the characteristics of the classical theory?

You tell us.

(but there are no photons in the classical theory of light waves)