Question

Briefly explain Planck's quantum theory and explain what a quantum is. What are the units for Planck's constant?

Short answer

Planck's Quantum Theory, proposed by Max Planck in 1900, says that energy is quantized and can be emitted or absorbed in discrete packets or 'quanta'. Each quantum of energy is given by \(E = h * f \), where \(f\) is frequency and \(h\) is Planck's constant. In the International System of Units (SI), the units for Planck's constant are joule-seconds (J*s).

Step-by-step solution

Explain Planck's Quantum Theory

Planck’s Quantum Theory is the foundation of modern quantum mechanics. The theory was put forward in 1900 by Max Planck, explaining the phenomenon of black body radiation. He stated that energy is quantized and can be emitted or absorbed only in discrete packets, each proportional to the frequency of radiation. This quantum of energy is given by \(E = h * f \) where \(h\) is Planck constant, \(E\) is energy and \(f\) is frequency.

Define a Quantum

Quantum, as mentioned in Planck's Quantum Theory, is the smallest possible discrete unit of any physical property, usually energy. In other words, it's the smallest indivisible unit of energy which can be transferred or absorbed.

Units of Planck's Constant

Planck’s constant (h) is a fundamental physical constant, which describes the behavior of particles and waves on the atomic scale. The units for Planck's constant are energy times time, which, in the International System of Units (SI), are given as joule-seconds (J*s).