A theory of the constituent factors in Planck's constant

Arguments are presented to suggest that Planck's constant (the constant factor in the relationship between the energy content and frequency of a photon) may be a derived constant, composed of other fundamental constants, rather than a fundamental physical constant in its own right. The theory is presented against a background of the production of Bremsstrahlung radiation when the accelerated electrons of an X-ray tube interact with the atoms of the target material. The general principle is first used to produce an approximate relationship, and then a correction factor makes allowance for the practical aspects of the process. A numerical example is offered and the value produced is in close agreement with accepted values calculated using Planck's constant. The suggestions inherent in the argument are developed to produce some conclusions relating to the process of the arrest of electrons by nuclear forces. The theory also suggests a possible 'shape' of a photon as a 'flat-fronted' burst of energy. (U.K.)