The classical mechanics had envisaged the world constructed of matter and radiation, the matter consisting of atoms and the radiation of waves. Plank's theory called for an atomicity of radiation similar to that which was so well established for matter. It supposed that radiation was not discharged from matter in a steady stream like water from a hose, but rather like lead from a machine-gun; it came off in separate chunks which Plank called quanta. This... carried tremendous philosophical consequences.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Planck proposed radiation comes in discrete chunks called quanta not as a continuous stream. This had huge philosophical effects.
- In plain terms
- Radiation works in separate packets like bullets not a steady stream like water.
- What can you take from it?
- Discrete changes in theory can change how we understand reality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does viewing things as discrete change your perspective?
- What else might be made of chunks?
Another view
The philosophical impact is broad but not always practical.
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