I Influence of electron's kinetic energy disspation during photoelectric emission

Click For Summary
The work function of a metal is influenced by its atomic structure and the binding energy of its outer electrons. Heavier alkali metals like potassium exhibit a low work function due to the weaker binding of their outer shell electrons. The discussion highlights the balance between the electromagnetic energy of the electrons and the dissipation of their kinetic energy during photoelectric emission. Ultimately, the properties of the metal's atoms play a crucial role in determining the work function. Understanding these factors is essential for applications in photoelectric devices.
Timothy S.
Messages
22
Reaction score
5
What are the properties of a metal that determine its work function? What has a greater influence on its value: the electromagnetic energy of an electron (which is going to leave metal's volume because of photoelectric emission) and the atoms of the metal or the dissipation of electron's kinetic energy in the process of THIS electron leaving the volume of the metal?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I think the heavier alkali metals, such as Potassium, have a low work function, which I imagine is due to the loose binding of the electron in the outer shell?
 
Thread is closed for Moderation. @EbalOsla -- check your messages.
 
After a PM exchange with the OP, this thread is reopened. Thanks for your patience.
 

Thread 'Please Explain Elementary Physics Elevator Question'

Hello, I'm joining this forum to ask two questions which have nagged me for some time. I am in no way trolling. They both are presumed obvious, yet don't make sense to me. Nobody will explain their positions, which is...uh...aka science. I also have a thread for the other question. Yes, I'm questioning the most elementary physics question we're given in this world. The classic elevator in motion question: A person is standing on a scale in an elevator that is in constant motion...
View full post »

Similar threads

I Photoelectric effect: Saturation voltage
Replies
4
Views
2K
I Question about the Photoelectric Effect and the Work Function of a Metal
Replies
5
Views
2K
Is the Photoelectric Effect Proof That Light Is a Particle?
Replies
35
Views
3K
I Relationship between Concentration of a Force and Energy Density
Replies
11
Views
1K
I Photoelectric effect and Saturation Current
Replies
12
Views
2K
I Some questions about the photoelectric experiment
Replies
13
Views
2K
I Ejection of Only one electron by a Photon in the Photoelectric effect
Replies
5
Views
2K
Photoelectric effect calculation
Replies
8
Views
3K
I Does photoelectric effect include light with threshold freq?
Replies
2
Views
2K
I Photoelectric absorption and low energy electron absorption
Replies
4
Views
2K