AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based Flashcards: Quantum Theory and Wave-Particle Duality
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
How does a particle's momentum affect its de Broglie wavelength?
The de Broglie wavelength increases as the momentum of the particle decreases, indicating an inverse relationship.
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How does a particle's momentum affect its de Broglie wavelength?
The de Broglie wavelength increases as the momentum of the particle decreases, indicating an inverse relationship.
What is a photon?
A photon is a massless, electrically neutral particle with energy proportional to its frequency.
Which branch of physics was insufficient for explaining certain observations of matter, leading to the development of quantum theory?
Classical mechanics was insufficient for explaining certain observations of matter and energy.
What does the de Broglie wavelength quantify?
The de Broglie wavelength quantifies the wave model of matter.
A scientist observes a particle with a very small momentum. What can be inferred about its de Broglie wavelength?
The particle will have a large de Broglie wavelength, as wavelength increases when momentum decreases.
If a particle's momentum is doubled, what happens to its de Broglie wavelength according to the equation λ = h/p?
If the momentum is doubled, the de Broglie wavelength is halved due to the inverse relationship.
What does it mean for an object to exhibit wave-particle duality?
It means the object exhibits both particle-like and wave-like properties and behavior.
Why was quantum theory developed?
Quantum theory was developed to explain observations of matter and energy that classical mechanics could not explain.
What are two key properties of a photon besides its energy?
A photon is massless and electrically neutral.
What is the relationship between a photon's energy and its frequency, according to the equation E = hf?
A photon's energy is directly proportional to its frequency.