Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter - Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

We all know about the characteristics, properties, and nature of the light, such as reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference, etc. Wave-particle duality helps us to determine the different nature of light and its particles.

In 1923, a great physicist Louis De Broglie discovered the wave-particle duality based on the fact that electromagnetic radiations and light both have a wave nature.

De Broglie Wavelength Formula

De Broglie stated that any particle with matter and momentum (p) must have an attached wavelength (λ). The formula for the same can be written as,

Here, λ is denoted as the wavelength,

P is denoted as the momentum.

And h is represented as the Planck constant.

If any particle has a momentum mv, the wavelength will be,

Λ = h / mv

This equation is not applicable in one field; in fact, it is applicable for photons too.

The importance of wave-particle duality is as follows:

1. It can be explained through a wave function, mainly the Schrodinger wave equation.
2. One of the best points is that wave-particle duality has the ability and capacity to define reality in the form of waves and wave equations.
3. It also represents the probability equations that can differ, interfere, reflect, refract other waves resulting in a final wave function.

As per Planck's hypothesis Quantum theory, little packets of energy are emitted in quanta. Wave-particle duality can be described as the relationship between the energy emitted and the frequency of the emitted light. There is a relation between the energy and frequency, as per Planck's hypothesis, and this is written as:

E = hv

It is said that the light and waves are similar to each other. By observing the light, one can see and prove the duality between the relation of a wave and a particle. Just like a wave, it refracts, reflects, diffracts, and interfaces.

The chapter 'Quantum Physics' is a part of class 11 and 12 syllabi, and the topic of wave-particle Duality is present in both classes. It holds a weightage of 4 marks and 7 marks simultaneously for classes 11 and 12. It consists of objective type questions, very short questions, and short questions.

Example 1) Write down the De Broglie wavelength formula.

Answer – The De Broglie Wavelength formula can be written as Λ = h / p

Here, λ is represented as the wavelength,

P is denoted as the momentum.

And h is represented as the Planck constant.

Example 2) Write one importance of wave-particle duality.

Answer – One of the best points is that wave-particle duality has the ability and capacity to define reality in the form of waves and wave equations.

Example 3) State the formula according to Planck's Hypothesis.

Answer – According to Planck’s Hypothesis, the formula can be written as  E = hv

Here, E is the energy,

V is the frequency, and h is Planck's constant.

Q: What do you mean by Wave-particle duality?

Q: Who discovered the wave-particle duality?

Q: What does the De Broglie wavelength formula mean?

Q: What do you mean by Wave-particle Dual nature?

Q: What is an electron – a wave or a particle?