- #1
bon
- 559
- 0
Homework Statement
A point charge +q is initially at distance x from a conducting plane of infinite extent and held at zero potential. Find the work done in moving the charge to an infinite distance from the plane. Hence find the minimum energy an electron must have in order to escape
from a metal surface (assume that it starts at a distance 0.1nm, which is about one atomic diameter, from it). Express your answer in electron-volts.
[Answers: q^2/(16πε0x) ; 3.6eV]
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
So I've worked out the work done and found this to be q^2/[16pi ε d] as required.
just not sure how to work out the minimum energy the electron in the surface must have to escape. don't see how this relates to the previous part. any help please? Thank you :)