Energy of a photon

Visible light is a kind of electromagnetic radiation (form of energy that exhibits wavelike behavior as it travels through space).

Properties of Light

• Other examples include X-rays, ultraviolet and infrared light, microwaves, and radio waves.

• The electromagnetic spectrum consists of all types of electromagnetic radiation

Properties of a Wave

All forms of electromagnetic radiation move at a speed of 3.0 x 10⁸ m/s through air.

• Wavelength – λ (m, cm, or nm) and frequency – ν (wave/second) are measurable properties of wave motion.

  • One wave/second is called a hertz (Hz).

• The relationship between wavelength (λ) and frequency (ν) is c = λν where c = speed of light.

Ground state of an atom is the lowest energy state of the atom. When those atoms are given energy, the electrons absorb the energy and move to a higher energy level.

Excited state of an atom is a state where its potential energy is higher than the ground state.

An atom in the excited state is not stable. When it returns back to the ground state, it releases the energy that it had previously gained in the form of electromagnetic radiation

Given: frequency (v)

Unknown: energy (E)

Once you choose the equation, plug in the numbers.

Given: wavelength (λ)

Unknown: energy (E)

Once you choose the equation, plug in the numbers.

Use the following equation: E = hv

Isolate v.