Question

Which of the following does not support the wave nature of light?
(A) Interference
(B) Diffraction
(C) Polarization
(D) Photoelectric effect.

Answer 1

Hint: Here we will be comparing the intensity, frequency, and kinetic energy of radiation for the given phenomenon.

Complete answer:
The photoelectric effect does not explain the wave nature of light. The photoelectric effect can be explained using the particle nature of light. And interference, diffraction, and polarization are based on the wave nature of light.
The experiments show that electrons are emitted as soon as radiation of suitable frequency falls on the metallic surface. But according to wave theory, the energy of radiation is spread continuously over the wave fronts.
In the case of the photoelectric effect, no matter how great the intensity of incident radiation, no electrons are liberated if the frequency is less than the threshold frequency. But according to wave theory, the electron should always be emitted from metal by radiation of any frequency if the incident beam is strong enough (that is intensity).
In the photoelectric effect, when the frequency of incident radiation is increased then the kinetic energy of the emitted electron also increases. But according to the wave nature of light, the kinetic energy of radiation is independent of its frequency, it depends on the intensity of radiation.
From these observations, we can say that the photoelectric effect does not support the wave nature of light.

Thus, the correct option is (D).

Additional information:
The phenomenon of two or more waves overlap with each other because of this there is a change in the energy of the resultant wave is called interference of light.
The phenomenon of bending of light around the corners of an obstacle or aperture is called diffraction of light. Due to the bending of light around the corners of an obstacle, the light deviates from its straight-line path and enters into the geometrical shadow of the obstacle. Bending of light is possible if it has a wave nature.
Transverse and longitudinal waves show interference and diffraction effects. Polarization is a property of transverse waves related to the direction or direction in which vibration occurs. The phenomenon of restricting the vibrations of light in a particular direction is called polarization.
The phenomenon of emission of electrons from the metal surface when radiation of suitable frequency falls on it is called the photoelectric effect.

Note:
According to the wave nature of light, the kinetic energy of radiation is independent of its frequency, it depends on the intensity of radiation.
In the photoelectric effect, the kinetic energy of electrons depends on the frequency of incident radiation.