X-rays 2 – Planck's Constant

Planck’s constant, h, is a fundamental constant that has significance in defining the quantum world by relating photon energy to its frequency. Max Planck discovered that, unlike suggested by classical mechanics, energy comes in discrete packets. This discovery led to the development of quantum mechanics and allowed phenomenon such as blackbody radiation to be modelled more accurately.  

Following on from the previous X-ray experiment, the X-ray machine and a NaCl crystal will be used to determine the minimum wavelength of the bremsstrahlung continuum as a function of the high voltage of the X-ray tube.  You will then confirm the Duane-Hunt relation between the minimum wavelength and the reciprocal of the high voltage. Finally, this will allow you determine Planck’s constant. 

Current students can find more information on Learn Ultra.