1. What is Planck's Constant?

Planck's constant (h) is a fundamental physical constant that relates the energy of a photon to its frequency. It is a cornerstone of quantum mechanics and has a value of approximately 6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ joule-seconds.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Planck's equation:

Where:

• \( E \) — Energy of the photon (joules)
• \( h \) — Planck's constant (6.626 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s)
• \( \nu \) — Frequency of the electromagnetic wave (hertz)

Explanation: This equation demonstrates the quantum nature of energy, showing that energy is quantized and proportional to frequency.

3. Importance of Planck's Constant

Details: Planck's constant is fundamental to quantum mechanics and is used in various calculations including blackbody radiation, photoelectric effect, and quantum energy calculations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the frequency in hertz (Hz). The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will compute the energy of a photon at that frequency.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the exact value of Planck's constant?
A: The exact value is 6.62607015 × 10⁻³⁴ J·s, as defined by the International System of Units (SI).

Q2: Why is Planck's constant important in physics?
A: It's a fundamental constant that bridges the classical and quantum worlds, essential for understanding quantum phenomena and particle behavior.

Q3: How is Planck's constant used in gas calculations?
A: While primarily used in quantum mechanics, it can be relevant in statistical mechanics for gas systems where quantum effects are significant.

Q4: Can Planck's constant change?
A: No, Planck's constant is considered a fundamental constant of nature and does not change over time or in different locations.

Q5: What are the units of Planck's constant?
A: The SI units are joule-seconds (J·s), but it can also be expressed in electronvolt-seconds (eV·s) for atomic-scale calculations.