How Does the Photoelectric Effect Determine Planck's Constant?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on an experiment to determine Planck's constant using the photoelectric effect, where varying negative potentials were applied to a photoelectric cell for different light frequencies. The minimum potentials needed to reduce the photocurrent to zero were recorded as 0.4V for 8.5 x 10^14 Hz and 6.4V for 2.35 x 10^15 Hz. The relationship between energy, frequency, and work function is highlighted, emphasizing that when photocurrent is zero, the maximum kinetic energy of photoelectrons is equal to the work done to stop them. A request for assistance in formulating the relevant equations is made, indicating a need for clarity on the mathematical representation of these concepts. Understanding these principles is crucial for calculating Planck's constant accurately.
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Homework Statement



In an experiment to determine the value of Planck's constant a negative potential was applied to the anode of a photoelectric cell and the minimum potential required to reduce the photocurrent to zero was mesure for incident light of various frequencies. For the frequencies of 8.5 x 10^14 Hz and 2.35 x 10^15 Hz the minimum potentials required were found to be 0.4V and 6.4V, respectively. Calculate Planck"s constant h.

Homework Equations



E=hf=hc/wavelength
E=mc^2

3. Attempt

I do not know how to start this. IN NEED OF DIRE HELP.
Thank you to anyone who helps.
 
Last edited:
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Even though I shouldn't reply since you didn't attempt anything, I will.

but you know that E=\phi +E_{k(max)} which is the same as hf=hf_0+\frac{1}{2}mv_{max}^2

When the photocurrent reaches zero, it means that the photoelectrons with max ke. just fail to reach the anode. So that the work done in stopping the electrons with max ke from reaching the anode=Loss in ke of the photoelectrons with max ke.

Can you express the last line in terms of an equation?
 
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