The main difference between something made out of atoms and something made out of light lies in their fundamental nature and properties.
Matter vs. Energy: Objects made out of atoms are forms of matter, whereas light is a form of energy. Atoms are the building blocks of matter, comprising particles such as protons, neutrons, and electrons. Objects made of atoms possess mass and occupy physical space. On the other hand, light consists of photons, which are particles of electromagnetic radiation. Light does not possess mass, and it propagates through space as waves of oscillating electric and magnetic fields.
Particle vs. Wave Nature: Atoms are inherently particle-like in nature. They have definite locations in space and behave according to the laws of classical or quantum mechanics, depending on their scale. Light, however, exhibits both particle-like and wave-like properties. It behaves as discrete packets of energy (photons) when interacting with matter, but it also exhibits wave behavior, such as interference and diffraction, which are characteristic of wave phenomena.
Interactions and Composition: Objects made out of atoms interact through various fundamental forces, such as electromagnetic, gravitational, and nuclear forces. The interactions between atoms give rise to the properties and behavior of matter. In contrast, light interacts with matter through phenomena such as absorption, reflection, and refraction. It can be absorbed by atoms, leading to electronic transitions or the generation of heat. Light itself does not have a composition in the traditional sense, as it consists of photons.
Structure and Persistence: Objects made out of atoms typically possess a definite structure and persistence over time. They can retain their properties and exist independently as stable entities. Light, on the other hand, is transient and can propagate through space until it interacts with matter. It does not persist as a stable entity unless it is confined or absorbed by a material medium.
It is worth noting that the relationship between matter and light is complex and interconnected. Matter can emit, absorb, transmit, or reflect light, and the behavior of light can be influenced by the presence of matter. This interaction between matter and light forms the basis of various phenomena in physics, chemistry, and optics.