Question

    Which of the following phenomena cannot be explained by

    the wave theory of light?
    A Diffraction Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B Interference Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Polarisation Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D Photoelectric effect Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    The photoelectric effect cannot be explained by the wave theory of light. The wave theory fails to account for the observation that light, below a certain frequency, does not eject electrons from a metal surface, regardless of its intensity. The phenomenon is explained by Einstein using the particle nature of light, which is described by the quantum theory.

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