What are the small particles of energy that light consists of called?

Light is made up of small particles of energy known as photons. Photons are fundamental particles in the field of quantum mechanics and represent the quantum of electromagnetic radiation. They carry energy that varies directly with their frequency and inversely with their wavelength, which is essential for understanding phenomena such as the photoelectric effect and the behavior of light in various materials.

Unlike electrons, which are charged particles found in atoms, or neutrons, which are neutral particles located in the atomic nucleus, photons have no mass and are not part of atomic structures. Atoms are larger structures that make up matter, composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons, but they do not specifically describe the particles of light. Understanding photons is crucial for grasping concepts in optics, electromagnetic theory, and communication technologies, among other fields.