Unveiling Modern Physics

Modern physics explores phenomena beyond the classical world, such as the behavior of atoms, light, and nuclei. It includes quantum mechanics and nuclear physics.

Quantum Effects

• Photoelectric Effect: When light hits a metal surface, it can knock out electrons, demonstrating that light behaves as particles (photons).
• Wave-Particle Duality: Particles can behave as both waves and particles, as shown in experiments with electrons and photons.

Nuclear Physics

• Radioactivity: Unstable nuclei spontaneously emit particles or radiation.
• Nuclear Fission and Fusion: Processes that release vast amounts of energy from atomic nuclei.

Real-World Connections

Quantum mechanics powers technologies like lasers and semiconductors, while nuclear physics underpins everything from smoke detectors to nuclear power plants.