Which one of the following has the largest energy content ?

Correct answer: A. 103 photons of wavelength 2 pm (γ-rays)

  • A. 103 photons of wavelength 2 pm (γ-rays)
  • B. 102 photons of wavelength 1nm (x-rays)
  • C. 106 photons of wavelength 50?m (infrared)
  • D. 106 photons of wavelength 200nm (UV)

Explanation

Total energy is Nhc/λ. Taking hc = 1.986 x 10^-25 J m, option a gives (10^3)(1.986 x 10^-25 J m)/(2 x 10^-12 m) = 9.93 x 10^-11 J, which is greater than b = 1.986 x 10^-14 J, c = 3.972 x 10^-15 J, and d = 9.93 x 10^-13 J. The likely mistake is comparing wavelength alone and ignoring the different numbers of photons.

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