Origins of Quantum Theory
PHYS 410 · Module 1
This module traces the experimental crises that forced physicists beyond classical mechanics and electromagnetism. Students study blackbody radiation, the photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and de Broglie's proposal that matter has wave properties.
Lessons in this module
Blackbody radiation and Planck
Blackbody radiation revealed a deep failure of classical physics. Planck solved the spectrum by introducing quantized oscillator energies, opening the door to quantum theory.
The photoelectric effect
The photoelectric effect showed that light transfers energy in packets called photons. Einstein explained why electron emission depends on frequency rather than intensity alone.
Compton scattering
Compton scattering demonstrated that photons carry momentum as well as energy. This lesson explains wavelength shift, photon-electron collisions, and the particle-like behavior of light.
de Broglie and matter waves
de Broglie proposed that matter has wave properties with wavelength $lambda=h/p$. This lesson introduces matter waves, electron diffraction, and the wave-particle duality of material particles.
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