The concept of wave-particle duality, which suggests that quantum objects such as photons can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like behavior, has been well-established and supported by experimental evidence. Therefore, it is more accurate to say that photons (and other quantum objects) are both waves and particles rather than asserting that they are neither.
In certain experiments, photons exhibit behaviors characteristic of waves, such as interference and diffraction patterns. These phenomena can be described by treating photons as waves and using mathematical tools like wave equations and wave functions.
On the other hand, in different experimental setups, photons also demonstrate behaviors that are more akin to particles. For example, during the photoelectric effect, photons act as discrete packets of energy (quanta) that can transfer their energy to electrons, causing them to be ejected from a material. This behavior aligns with the particle-like nature of photons.
The wave-particle duality of quantum objects is not a contradiction but rather a reflection of the limitations of classical intuitions when it comes to understanding the behavior of particles at the quantum level. It implies that the behavior of quantum objects cannot be described solely by classical wave or particle concepts, but rather requires a more nuanced understanding that incorporates both aspects.
Therefore, to accurately describe and explain the behavior of photons and other quantum objects, it is necessary to embrace the idea that they possess characteristics of both waves and particles. Wave-particle duality is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics, and it has been successfully utilized in numerous experimental observations and theoretical models.