The nature of light has been a subject of extensive study and scientific inquiry. While it is true that light photons are considered massless particles, they do possess momentum. This characteristic of light can be understood within the framework of quantum mechanics.
In quantum mechanics, particles can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties. Light, specifically, exhibits wave-particle duality, meaning it can behave as both a particle (photon) and a wave (electromagnetic wave). The concept of momentum is associated with the particle-like behavior of light.
The momentum of a photon is given by its wavelength and is directly proportional to it. This relationship is described by the equation p = h/λ, where p is the momentum, h is Planck's constant, and λ is the wavelength of the light. Although light does not have mass, it carries energy and momentum, which can be transferred to other objects upon interaction.
Regarding the term "energy wave," it is important to note that while light can be described as a wave in certain situations, it is not strictly an energy wave. Energy is a property carried by light, but the wave-particle duality of light encompasses both its wave nature and its particle nature.
In summary, light photons are considered massless particles that exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties. They possess momentum despite their lack of mass, and their behavior can be understood through the framework of quantum mechanics.