Frequency of Photon Formula:
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The frequency of radiation absorbed or emitted during a transition is calculated using Planck's equation, which relates the energy difference between quantum states to the frequency of the electromagnetic radiation involved in the transition.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This fundamental equation in quantum mechanics describes the relationship between the energy of a photon and its frequency, where the energy difference between two quantum states equals the energy of the photon absorbed or emitted.
Details: Calculating the frequency of radiation is crucial for understanding atomic and molecular transitions, spectroscopy analysis, quantum mechanics studies, and various applications in chemistry, physics, and materials science.
Tips: Enter the energy difference in joules (J). The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will automatically use Planck's constant (6.626070040 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s) for the calculation.
Q1: What units should I use for energy difference?
A: The calculator requires energy difference in joules (J). If you have energy in electronvolts (eV), convert to joules first (1 eV = 1.602 × 10⁻¹⁹ J).
Q2: Why is Planck's constant used in this formula?
A: Planck's constant is the fundamental proportionality constant that relates the energy of a photon to its frequency in quantum mechanics.
Q3: What does the frequency tell us about the radiation?
A: The frequency determines the type of electromagnetic radiation (radio, microwave, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, X-ray, or gamma ray) involved in the transition.
Q4: Can this formula be used for both absorption and emission?
A: Yes, the same formula applies to both absorption and emission processes, as the energy difference is the same in both cases.
Q5: What are typical frequency values for atomic transitions?
A: Atomic transitions typically produce frequencies in the ultraviolet, visible, or infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, ranging from 10¹⁴ to 10¹⁵ Hz.