In the seventeenth century,Isaac Newton suggested a particle theory for light and Christian Huygens proposed a wave theory.Our present understanding is that:
A) the wave theory is correct but the particle theory is not.
B) the particle theory is correct but the wave theory is not.
C) neither theory provides a correct description of light.
D) a combination of both theories is necessary to provide a correct description of light.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Our present understanding is that light has both wave-like and particle-like properties, which is known as wave-particle duality. This means that a combination of both theories is necessary to provide a correct description of light. Newton's particle theory is useful for explaining phenomena like the emission and absorption of light by matter, while Huygens' wave theory is useful for explaining phenomena like interference and diffraction. Both theories have been expanded and refined over time, but neither can fully explain all of the properties of light on their own.

In the Seventeenth Century,Isaac Newton Suggested a Particle Theory for Light