× Didn't find what you were looking for? Ask a question
Top Posters
Since Sunday
s
3
3
d
3
s
2
c
2
G
2
y
2
t
2
2
k
2
j
2
e
2
Home Q & A Board Science-Related Homework Help Physics
New Topic  
buffzyzz buffzyzz
wrote...
10 years ago
When we draw light waves, we draw oscillating lines.  The photons aren't actually oscillating while they travel, so what is?

In other words-  What physical property of a photon is the same at its crests that's different at its troughs?
Read 197 times
3 Replies

Related Topics

Replies
mickeymouse50 Author
wrote...
#1
10 years ago
To describe the differences between types of light like visible and x-ray, scientists often talk about the length of the light's waves or "wavelength." The various types of light that make up the electromagnetic spectrum differ in the length of their waves. However, this doesn't mean the entire length of the wave train. The length of a light's wave or the wavelength is the distance between two nearest peaks (the highest places) or two nearest troughs (the place where it dips the lowest).
wrote...
#2
10 years ago
Well the photons actually are the waves... it's wave/particle duality. Light has a wavelength and also has a momentum like a particle... although it's massless. Confusing stuff I know. Look at some stuff in quantum mechanics, it definitely gives you a greater insight to the whole idea. The wiki on it is very good.
wrote...
#3
10 years ago
Light, as a form of electro-magnetic radiation, consists of alternating electric and magnetic fields traveling through space. In simplified terms, an electric field causes a magnetic field, which causes an electric field, etc. It's the distance between the peaks in field strength that defines the wavelength.
New Topic      
Quick Reply
Explore
Post your homework questions and get free online help from our incredible volunteers
  1157 People Browsing
Start New Topic Take the Tour CoursesNew Study Tools Topics Trending Browse by Textbook
Live Chat
Related Images
  
 166
  
 86
  
 272
Your Opinion
What's your favorite math subject?
Votes: 315
Previous poll results: Which industry do you think artificial intelligence (AI) will impact the most?