On a Heuristic Viewpoint Concerning the Production and Transformation of Light (Einstein – 1905)
Morteza Shokraneh, Physics Undergraduate Student, Sharif University of Technology
Date: March 3, 2020
In this lecture we discussed the historical background of the photoelectric effect by reading Einstein’s 1905 paper. I treated the key elements of this paper which lead us to Einstein’s light-quantum theory. This subject is routinely used in the primary stages of the study of quantum physics. I strictly tried to adhere to main version of the article. Here is the topics that we will consider.
• Idea(s) that propelled Einstein toward considering energy as a packet which he called quanta.
• Classical physics (in the classic sense of the word) cannot justify The Black-Body Radiation.
• To derive the idea of quanta mathematically from comparison Wien’s work on entropy of the radiation and Planck’s formula’s about black-body radiation with an statistical interpretation of entropy
• Some experiments such as the ionization of gases by ultraviolet light, photoelectric effect, etc.
For further detailed information about Einstein’s most fascinating works during those days, The Swiss years: Writings, 1900-1909, Volume 2, is strongly recommended.