Light exhibits characteristics of both particles and waves. This dual nature of light is described by the theory of quantum mechanics.
According to the particle nature of light, light is composed of discrete packets of energy called photons. Photons are considered fundamental particles of light and exhibit particle-like behavior. They have properties such as energy, momentum, and can interact with matter like particles do, for example, in the photoelectric effect.
On the other hand, light also exhibits wave-like behavior. This is described by the wave theory of light, which treats light as an electromagnetic wave. Light waves can undergo phenomena such as interference, diffraction, and polarization, similar to other types of waves. The wave theory explains various properties of light, such as its ability to propagate, refract, and reflect.
The concept that light can behave both as a particle and a wave is known as wave-particle duality. This duality is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics and is not exclusive to light but applies to other particles as well, such as electrons and other elementary particles.
In summary, light can be described as having both particle-like and wave-like properties, depending on the context in which it is observed. The particle nature is evident in the behavior of individual photons, while the wave nature explains the overall propagation and interaction of light.