Problem with photoelectric effect

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the photoelectric effect, specifically addressing a scenario where light of a certain wavelength interacts with a photosurface, leading to the emission of electrons. The original poster presents a problem involving calculations related to the threshold wavelength and the kinetic energy of emitted electrons.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the photoelectric effect equations to determine the largest wavelength that can cause electron emission. They express confusion regarding the kinetic energy at a specific wavelength and seek guidance on how to proceed. Another participant provides a calculation for the maximum wavelength and raises a question about the minimum wavelength for electron emission.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different aspects of the problem. One participant has provided a calculation for the maximum wavelength, while others are clarifying concepts related to threshold frequency and wavelength. There is an ongoing exchange of ideas, but no consensus has been reached regarding the minimum wavelength.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating through the complexities of the photoelectric effect, including the relationship between wavelength and frequency, and the implications of threshold values. There is a noted confusion regarding terminology, particularly between wavelength and frequency, which may affect the clarity of the discussion.

ant284
Hi,

I'm have a problem with photoelectric effect
it states that we have a wavelength of 2.08*10^-7 falls on the photosurface, a voltage of 1.40V is required to stop the emitted electrons from reaching the anode.
What is the largest wavelength of light which will result in emission of electrons from this photosurface.?

so we have the equation
eV=hf-W
W=h* critical frequency and
K=hf-W
and
f=speed of light/wavelength.

v=1.40
f=(3*10^8)/(2.08*10^-7)

And wouldn't the Kinetic energy be 0 for a wavelength of 2.08*10^-7
So i don't know where to go from here! I want to do it but I can't it is frustrating!
Any help is appreciation
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Hi again,

I think i got it

we have
K(kinetic)= eV
eV=hf-W
1.4 * (1.6*10-19) = h c/wavenlength -work
we get work =
7.7*10^-19 (About)
Now when it is the largest value above this value no electron will be emitted therefore KE=0
so we would have
0= Hc/waveleng-W
or
hc/w=wavelength
and we get 2.6*10^-7

But my question what would be the minimum value of wavelength?? if it is possible to find
 
Your answer to the question is right (I got 272 nm without rounding). As for a minimum wavelength - there isn't really a restriction on how short wavelength the light is aslong as it is shorter than the threshold (maximum) wavelength. It's just that a higher potential would be needed to stop emission.
 
Last edited:
Hi,

one more quick question, as long as the frequency is below the threshold electrons are emitted, and above the threshold, the electrons are not emitted? Am i correct
 
Damn sorry I've probably just confused you now. I've editted my original to say wavelength instead of frequency (oops). Aslong as the photons are above the threshold frequency, or below the wavelength at this frequency will there be emission. Sorry I kept swapping wavelength and frequency and probably confused us both!

Anyway to make it clear again - aslong as the photons are above the threshold frequency, or have a shorter wavelength than the wavelength at this frequency there will be electron emission. So there is really no minimum wavelength value. lol :wink:

editted: about 10 times for spelling and grammar
 
Last edited:

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