Which of the following statements is true concerning Planck's quantum hypothesis?

• A. The energy of a quantum is independent of the frequency of radiation.
• B. Planck's hypothesis states that matter cannot emit electromagnetic radiation.
• C. Energy can be emitted or absorbed in any continuous amount.
• D. Energy is emitted or absorbed in discrete packets called quanta.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that Planck's quantum hypothesis was proposed to explain the emission of electromagnetic radiation by matter, particularly blackbody radiation.
2. Recall that Planck suggested energy is not emitted or absorbed continuously, but rather in discrete amounts called quanta or photons.
3. Recognize the fundamental equation from Planck's hypothesis: \(E = h \nu\), where \(E\) is the energy of a quantum, \(h\) is Planck's constant, and \(\nu\) is the frequency of the radiation.
4. Note that this equation implies the energy of a quantum is directly proportional to the frequency of the radiation, so energy depends on frequency, not independent of it.
5. Conclude that the true statement is that energy is emitted or absorbed in discrete packets called quanta, which is the core idea of Planck's quantum hypothesis.