Light exhibits properties of both waves and particles, leading to the concept of wave-particle duality. In certain experiments and observations, light behaves as a wave, while in others, it behaves as a particle.
From a wave perspective, light can be described as an electromagnetic wave composed of oscillating electric and magnetic fields. It exhibits phenomena such as interference, diffraction, and polarization, which are characteristic of waves.
From a particle perspective, light can be conceptualized as discrete packets of energy called photons. Photons are massless particles that carry energy and momentum. They can interact with matter and be detected as individual particles in experiments like the photoelectric effect.
The wave-particle duality of light was a significant revelation in the early development of quantum mechanics. It means that the behavior of light depends on the experimental setup or the type of observation being made. In certain experiments, light behaves more like a wave, while in others, it behaves more like a particle. The choice of whether to describe light as a wave or a particle depends on the context and the specific experiment or observation under consideration.
It's worth noting that the wave-particle duality is not limited to light. It is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics and applies to other particles as well, such as electrons and other subatomic particles.