The duality of light
The duality of light refers to the fact that light exhibits both wave-like and particle-like properties. This concept is known as the wave-particle duality of light, which is one of the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics.
On one hand, light behaves like a wave, with characteristics such as diffraction, interference, and polarization. This wave-like behavior is evident in phenomena like the double-slit experiment, where light waves create an interference pattern on a screen.
On the other hand, light also behaves like a stream of particles known as photons. Photons have energy and momentum and can interact with matter like particles do, causing effects such as the photoelectric effect and Compton scattering.
The wave-particle duality of light is a key concept in understanding the nature of light and has profound implications for our understanding of the fundamental particles and forces in the universe.