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Building on Planck’s Quantum Theory Foundation on Planck: Einstein’s theory is based on Planck’s idea that energy is quantised. Foundation on Planck: Einstein’s theory began by building upon the earlier ideas introduced by a scientist named Max Planck. Planck had proposed that energy isn’t released smoothly and continuously, but instead in very tiny and separate … Read more

Definition Effect overview: Electrons are emitted from a metal surface when exposed to light of sufficiently high frequency. Effect overview: When certain types of light shine on a metal surface, tiny particles called electrons can jump out from the surface. This only happens if the light has a high enough frequency or energy. Photoelectrons: The … Read more

Background Classical particle view: Light was originally thought to consist of tiny particles. Classical particle view: A long time ago, scientists believed that light was made up of very small particles, kind of like tiny balls, that travel through empty space. They thought these particles could explain how light moved and how we could see … Read more

Transistor Basic definition: A transistor is a semiconductor device that functions as a switch or amplifier for electrical signals. Basic definition: A transistor is a small electronic component made from semiconductor materials. It can act as a switch to turn electricity on or off or as an amplifier to make electrical signals stronger. Transistors are … Read more

Definition Spontaneous process: Radioactive decay is a natural event where unstable atomic nuclei emit radiation to become stable. Spontaneous process: Radioactive decay is a natural process that happens on its own without being started by anything outside. It occurs when the nucleus (center) of an unstable atom breaks down and gives off radiation so it … Read more

Definition Nuclear energy source: Energy released from the atomic nucleus during nuclear reactions. Nuclear energy source: Nuclear energy comes from a special place inside every atom called the nucleus. This is the center of the atom, where protons and neutrons are found. When a nuclear reaction happens—meaning there is a big change in the nucleus—a … Read more