Number of photons emitted by a laser

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The discussion centers on calculating the number of photons emitted by a laser using the formula P.t = nhf. Participants emphasize the importance of converting electron volts (eV) to joules for accurate calculations, noting that 5 eV equals 8 × 10^(-19) joules. The correct calculation for the photon emission rate is derived as n/t = 0.01 / (8 × 10^(-19)), resulting in 1.25 × 10^16. The conversation highlights the necessity of unit conversion in physics problems. Overall, the importance of careful unit handling in calculations is underscored.
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Homework Statement
A laser emits photon of energy 5 eV with power of 0.01 W. How many photons are emitted per second?
a. 3.1 × 10^21
b. 5.0 × 10^18
c. 2.5 × 10^21
d. 4.0 × 10^14
e. 2.7 × 10^15
Relevant Equations
E = nhf
E = P.t
P.t = nhf
n/t = P/(hf) = 1.25 × 10^16

Something wrong with my working or I just pick (E) as answer? Thanks
 
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This is an exercise in conversion of units. You need to express 5 eV in joules, and also realize that a watt is one joule per second. What you submitted in the OP appears to show a lack of effort.
 
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Charles Link said:
This is an exercise in conversion of units. You need to express 5 eV in joules, and also realize that a watt is one joule per second. What you submitted in the OP appears to show a lack of effort.
To change eV to Joules, I need to multiply with elementary charge so 5 eV = 5 × 1.6 × 10^(-19) = 8 × 10^(-19)

So, n/t = 0.01 / (8 × 10^(-19)) = 1.25 × 10^16
 
songoku said:
To change eV to Joules, I need to multiply with elementary charge so 5 eV = 5 × 1.6 × 10^(-19) = 8 × 10^(-19)

So, n/t = 0.01 / (8 × 10^(-19)) = 1.25 × 10^16
Yes, I get your answer.
 
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Thank you very much for the help Charles Link and haruspex
 
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