An Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit

In summary, to create a photoelectric effect lab kit, you would need:- a UV light source- a zinc electrode- a monochromatic lens- a suspended tin foil electroscope
  • #1
EM_Guy
217
49
What materials and equipment would be needed to for a hobbyist photoelectric effect lab kit?

If possible, trying to keep this within a budget of $50. (Cheaper if feasible).
 
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  • #2
I reckon you could do it almost for free. You can make an electroscope with careful use of tin foil (instead of the better gold leaf), suspended inside a jam jar. You need a bit of clean zinc and direct sunlight should give you enough UV to discharge the Zinc plate, when you charge it up. You can charge it up with the induction method (it's described all over the place).
 
  • #3
sophiecentaur said:
I reckon you could do it almost for free. You can make an electroscope with careful use of tin foil (instead of the better gold leaf), suspended inside a jam jar. You need a bit of clean zinc and direct sunlight should give you enough UV to discharge the Zinc plate, when you charge it up. You can charge it up with the induction method (it's described all over the place).

Thanks.

What about cheap monochromatic lenses? I'd like to actually measure Planck's constant and the stopping potential - if I can do so without spending much money. Also, where do you suppose I can pick up some clean zinc?
 
  • #4
And is there something special about zinc? Can another metal be used?
 
  • #5
EM_Guy said:
And is there something special about zinc? Can another metal be used?
It needs to have a low work function but you won't be able to get hold of one of the Alkali Metals (with work functions corresponding to optical frequencies). It's the poor man's option (in a higher group), which just manages to produce photoelectrons with UV. I don't know whether anything else will do, to be honest, but it will have to obtainable and in the right group.
EM_Guy said:
What about cheap monochromatic lenses?
UV is absorbed by many glasses so it may be hard to do what you want with the low intensity available from Sunlight. Perhaps, if you went up a mountain?? :wink:
I'm not sure how you would bring in the stopping potential bit.
Clean zinc is just any ol' zinc with a scraped surface. I am not totally sure just how the purity of the zinc would affect things but, hell, the basic experiment could be set up and tested in an evening. (I got a kilo of zinc from a scrap metal dealer for a GBP or two)
 
  • #6
Free + UV lamp..

 

1. What is the purpose of an Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit?

The purpose of an Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit is to provide an affordable and accessible way for hobbyists and students to experiment with the photoelectric effect, a fundamental concept in physics. This kit allows users to observe and measure the relationship between light frequency and electron energy, and to explore the properties of different materials and light sources.

2. What components are included in an Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit?

An Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit typically includes a photoelectric cell, a power supply, a light source, a frequency generator, and various cables and connectors. Some kits may also include additional components such as lenses or filters for further experimentation.

3. Can an Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit be used for educational purposes?

Yes, an Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit can be a valuable educational tool for students in physics or related fields. It can aid in understanding the photoelectric effect and its applications, as well as provide hands-on experience with scientific experimentation and data analysis.

4. Is any prior knowledge or experience required to use an Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit?

While some basic knowledge of physics and electronics may be helpful, an Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to beginners. The kit usually comes with instructions and guidance for setting up and conducting experiments.

5. What are the benefits of using an Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit?

Using an Inexpensive Hobbyist Photoelectric Effect Lab Kit can provide a hands-on and interactive way to learn about the photoelectric effect. It can also foster critical thinking skills and spark curiosity in the field of physics. Additionally, the affordability and portability of the kit make it a convenient option for hobbyists or students who may not have access to a fully equipped laboratory.

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