Help with photoelectric effect

In summary, the conversation discusses utilizing the photoelectric effect for a class presentation and exploring potential applications from a physics perspective. One suggestion is to create a simple solar cell using a metal with a low work function and directing light onto it to collect ejected electrons and power a Christmas light or other device. However, there are uncertainties about the trajectory of the ejected electrons and how to collect and channel them effectively.
  • #1
rspandher
how can i use photoelectric effect to do a in class presentation. hoe can i exploit this phenomenan to make something meaningful from physics point of view. please give appropriate suggestions.
 
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  • #2
Is the photoelectric effect the same as a photoconductive effect? If so, I have an idea.
 
  • #3
You could try to make a very simple solar cell. Find a metal with a very low work functin, shape it into a parabola, shine a light onto it, and put something to pick up the ejected electrons at the focus and use it to make a christmas light shine or something. Of course this makes an assumption I'm not sure I'm totally justified in making. I know that if you were to shine light in a parabola it would reflect and go to the focus, however I don't know that I can assume the ejected electrons would travel with the same trajectory? Also I don't know what you could use to collect the emitted electrons and put them through a wire. Perhpas someone smarter could help.
 

FAQ: Help with photoelectric effect

What is the photoelectric effect?

The photoelectric effect is a phenomenon in which electrons are emitted from a material when it is exposed to light or electromagnetic radiation.

How does the photoelectric effect work?

The photoelectric effect occurs when photons of light strike a material and transfer their energy to electrons within the material. This energy is enough to overcome the binding energy of the electrons, causing them to be ejected from the material.

What is the significance of the photoelectric effect?

The photoelectric effect is significant because it provided evidence for the particle nature of light and helped to develop our understanding of quantum mechanics. It also has practical applications in technologies such as solar cells and photomultiplier tubes.

What factors affect the photoelectric effect?

The photoelectric effect is affected by the frequency and intensity of the incident light, as well as the properties of the material, such as its work function and electron density.

How is the photoelectric effect related to the photoelectric equation?

The photoelectric equation, also known as the Einstein equation, describes the relationship between the energy of a photon and the maximum kinetic energy of an emitted electron. It is a direct result of the photoelectric effect and helps to explain the experimental observations.

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