Find the photoelectric work function for this metal

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the photoelectric work function for a metal using a graph of stopping potential versus frequency. The threshold frequency is identified as 1.25×10^15 Hz, and the work function is derived from this frequency multiplied by Planck's constant (h). Participants clarify that h can be determined from the graph's slope, and they convert the resulting energy from joules to electron volts (eV). Despite minor discrepancies in calculations, the consensus is that the work function is approximately 4.8 eV. Understanding the relationship between stopping potential, frequency, and the work function is crucial for solving the problem.
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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