The nature of light has been a subject of scientific investigation for centuries, and it is described by the theory of quantum electrodynamics (QED). According to QED, light exhibits properties of both particles and waves, known as wave-particle duality. This concept suggests that particles, such as photons (the fundamental particles of light), can exhibit wave-like behavior under certain circumstances.
While it may seem logical to define light solely as a particle, this would not provide a complete understanding of its behavior. Light exhibits wave-like characteristics, such as interference and diffraction, which are not easily explained by a particle-only description. These phenomena can be observed in experiments like the double-slit experiment, where light passes through two slits and produces an interference pattern on a screen.
On the other hand, light also demonstrates particle-like behavior in other experiments, such as the photoelectric effect, where it behaves as discrete packets of energy called photons. Photons can transfer their energy to electrons, causing them to be emitted from a material when exposed to light.
To fully comprehend the behavior of light, scientists rely on the wave-particle duality concept, which allows for a more comprehensive understanding of its properties and interactions. It is through this duality that light can be accurately described and explained in various physical phenomena.