Are the eyes an example of the photoelectric effect

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on whether the eyes exemplify the photoelectric effect. While one participant suggests that the eyes convert light into electrical energy, others clarify that the eyes operate through chemical processes involving opsins, not the photoelectric effect. The conversation emphasizes that the photoelectric effect is a specific physical phenomenon, distinct from the biological processes in vision. Participants encourage further research on visual phototransduction to understand how the eyes function. The discourse highlights the importance of accurate scientific understanding in discussions about complex topics like vision.
dshea
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It seems to me that the eyes are an example of the photoelectric effect at work. If so, which is more effective; current technology, photosynthesis, or our eyes?
 
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dshea said:
It seems to me that the eyes are an example of the photoelectric effect at work.

Except that they aren't. Our eyes work by chemical processes involving a protein family called opsins.
 
So the photon's are not being converted into electrical energy? Or is the photoelectric effect being expressed by the opsins? It seems to me that light is being converted to electricity that our brain interprets.
 
the photoelectric effect is not an umbrella term for the conversion of light into movements of electrons. It is the physics of a very specific scattering effect. From what little I know about how the eyes see the work voltage, retarding potential, etc. have nothing to do with it.
 
This is not the way to hold a conversation: writing down incorrect things that "seem to you" to be true, and yet are not. I would start by reading up on how the eye actually does work before posting about how you think it must work.
 
Good point. Can you point me in the right direction?
 
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