Electrons flow in thermionic emmission?

In summary, to create a continuous flow of electrons, a high positive potential and low gas pressure are required. This is because electrons are easily stopped by air molecules, so a vacuum or low pressure environment is necessary. Additionally, in thermionic emission, heat energy is converted into kinetic energy, resulting in electron flow."
  • #1
captain-hawks
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Explain that to cause a continuous flow of elctrons requires high positive potential and less gass pressure?
Can anyone answer this please
 
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  • #2
Hi,
If you want electrons to flow, you need vacuum or gas at low pressure. this is because, electrons are extremely light, relative to air molecules. The air atoms or molecules stop them. The high positive potential attracts the electrons and accelerates them, causing a flow of current.
But why are you asking this under the title "thermionic emission"?
In thermionic emission, electrons gain energy due to heat. This energy is transformed into Kinetic energy, causing the electron flow.
 

1. What is thermionic emission?

Thermionic emission is the process by which electrons are emitted from a heated surface or material. This occurs when the thermal energy of the material is high enough to overcome the attractive forces holding the electrons in place.

2. How does thermionic emission occur?

Thermionic emission occurs when a material is heated to a high temperature, causing the electrons within the material to gain enough energy to overcome the material's work function. This results in the release of electrons from the surface of the material.

3. What is the significance of electrons flowing in thermionic emission?

The flow of electrons in thermionic emission is an important process in electronics, as it is used in devices such as vacuum tubes and cathode ray tubes. It allows for the control and manipulation of electrons, which is essential for the functioning of these devices.

4. What factors affect the rate of electron flow in thermionic emission?

The rate of electron flow in thermionic emission is affected by several factors, including the temperature of the material, the work function of the material, and the electric field surrounding the material. Higher temperatures and lower work functions generally result in a higher rate of electron flow.

5. How is thermionic emission used in modern technology?

Thermionic emission is used in various modern technologies, including vacuum tubes, cathode ray tubes, and electron microscopes. It is also used in the development of new technologies such as thermionic energy converters and thermionic solar cells.

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