1. What is Photon Energy Calculation?

Definition: This calculator determines the energy of a photon based on its wavelength using Planck's equation.

Purpose: It helps physicists, chemists, and students understand the quantum energy of electromagnetic radiation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E \) — Photon energy (joules)
• \( h \) — Planck's constant (6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s)
• \( c \) — Speed of light (3 × 10⁸ m/s)
• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength (meters)

Explanation: The energy of a photon is inversely proportional to its wavelength - shorter wavelengths have higher energy.

3. Importance of Photon Energy Calculation

Details: Understanding photon energy is crucial in quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, photochemistry, and optical technologies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the wavelength in meters (e.g., 500 nm = 5e-7 m). The value must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Planck's constant?
A: A fundamental constant (6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s) that relates a photon's energy to its frequency.

Q2: How do I convert nanometers to meters?
A: 1 nm = 10⁻⁹ m, so 500 nm = 500 × 10⁻⁹ = 5 × 10⁻⁷ m.

Q3: What's the energy range for visible light?
A: Approximately 1.6-3.3 eV (2.56-5.28 × 10⁻¹⁹ J) for 400-700 nm wavelengths.

Q4: Can I calculate frequency from this?
A: Yes, frequency ν = c/λ, and E = hν, so both formulas are equivalent.

Q5: Why is the energy value so small?
A: Individual photons carry tiny amounts of energy; we usually work with mole quantities (1 mol photons = 1 einstein).