Electron vs Photon: The Photoelectric Effect Explained

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Dannyinjapan
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Electron Photon
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the photoelectric effect, specifically addressing the behavior of electrons in a metal when exposed to photons. Participants explore the implications of photon absorption, the replenishment of electrons, and the overall energy dynamics within the system. The conversation includes theoretical and conceptual clarifications related to grounding and charge distribution in conductors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express confusion about the photoelectric effect and whether electrons are replaced after being emitted from the metal.
  • One participant asserts that the metal remains positively charged due to the loss of electrons and that these electrons are not replaced, while another argues that in typical experiments, the emitted electrons are replenished from the ground.
  • There is a discussion about the concept of grounding, with some participants explaining that grounding provides a continuous source of electrons from the Earth.
  • Questions arise regarding the nature of electrons, with participants pondering whether electrons are considered matter or energy and what the fundamental unit of energy is.
  • A later reply emphasizes that grounding is a common concept in both quantum physics and classical electromagnetism, suggesting that understanding this concept is crucial for further studies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit disagreement regarding the replenishment of electrons and the implications of grounding. Some assert that electrons are continuously replenished, while others question the mechanism and nature of this replenishment. The discussion remains unresolved on several points, particularly regarding the conceptual understanding of electrons as matter or energy.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the definitions and implications of grounding and charge reservoirs, indicating a potential gap in understanding fundamental concepts that may affect their grasp of related topics in physics.

  • #31
right but like are the photons inside the matter and then they are released or what am i
missing.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
The photon is created from something like a vacuum using energy ? I wish I can answer. Maybe the vacuum is something to be ready to release photons. The vacuum may have a lot of photons and anti-photons.
 
  • #33
there are no anti-photons, the photon is its own anti particle.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K