Find the photoelectric work function for this metal

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the photoelectric work function for a metal using a graph that depicts the stopping potential as a function of the frequency of incident light. Participants are exploring the relationship between stopping potential, frequency, and the work function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the threshold frequency and its significance in calculating the work function. There are questions about the accuracy of the threshold frequency value derived from the graph and the method to find Planck's constant. Some participants suggest using the slope of the graph to find Planck's constant.

Discussion Status

Several participants are actively engaging with the problem, sharing their calculations and questioning the values derived from the graph. There is a recognition of different interpretations of the threshold frequency and the calculations leading to varying results for the work function. Guidance has been offered regarding the use of the graph to determine necessary constants.

Contextual Notes

Participants note difficulties in reading the graph accurately, which may affect their calculations. There is also mention of needing to convert energy units from joules to electronvolts, and some uncertainty remains regarding the exact values used in calculations.

icelated
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Homework Statement



The graph in fig shows the stopping potential as a function of the frequency of the incident light falling on the metal surface.

Find the photoelectric work function for this metal

Homework Equations



V_0 =\frac{hf}{e}-\frac{\phi}{e}

The Attempt at a Solution



From the graph, fth =1.25×10 Hz.
I am completely lost.
The solution gives 4.8ev
is it h times threshold?
how do you find h?
 

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icelated said:
From the graph, fth =1.25×10 Hz.
I am completely lost.
The solution gives 4.8ev
is it h times threshold?
how do you find h?
yep. the work function is just the threshold frequency times h. Although, I don't think the threshold frequency is 1.25*10 Hz... shouldn't it be 10 to the power of something? I can't tell because the graph is a bit hard to read. and how to find h? Um. It is just a constant. It should be given to you in the question, or you can look it up online.
 
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h is the gradient of the straight line, you need 'e' to convert stopping potential into energy in joules
 
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The solutions said fth =1.25×10^15 Hz.
h = planks constant = 6.26x10^-36
if you multiply you get 8.2825 i have to assume that's in jewels
so i convert that to ev
8.2825 / 1.6 x 10^-19 = 5.17ev

but the answer is 4.8ev
 
I think i got it.
h= (e)(slope) = (1.60×10−16 C)(3.8×10−15 V ⋅ s) = 6.1×10^−34 J ⋅ s
(6.1×10^−34 Js)(1.25x10^15) = 7.75x10^-19
then convert to ev
7.75x10^-19 / 1.6x10^-19 = 4.84 x10^-19
 
ah, good work. I see, you got h from the graph. nice, I didn't think of that.
 
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BruceW said:
ah, good work. I see, you got h from the graph. nice, I didn't think of that.

Yes, i got h from the graph. Thank you.
 

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