Photoelectric effect and bound electrons

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the photoelectric effect, specifically addressing why incoming photons interact with bound electrons. It is established that bound electrons require a specific work function to be freed, particularly in conductors where positive charges induce a pull on escaping electrons. In contrast, insulators contain electrons that are not free, making them less susceptible to the photoelectric effect. The distinction between bound electrons and conduction band electrons is clarified, emphasizing that the latter are not bound to any atom.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the photoelectric effect
  • Knowledge of electron work function in conductors
  • Familiarity with conduction band and bound electrons
  • Basic principles of solid-state physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of electron work function in various materials
  • Explore the differences between conductors and insulators in the context of electron behavior
  • Study the mechanisms of the photoelectric effect in detail
  • Learn about the role of conduction bands in metals and their relation to electron ejection
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, researchers in material science, and anyone interested in the principles of the photoelectric effect and electron dynamics in different materials.

usman1984
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Hi. My question is why in photoelectric effect in coming photon interacts with bound electrons only?
Thanks
 
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The way I understand it, the electron will always have some work function/energy required to free it because, e.g. in the case of conductors, a positive charge gets induced around the electron trying to pull it back when it tries to escape the surface. Meanwhile, for the case of insulators, the electrons are not free.
 
Thanks Charles
 
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What do you mean by "bound electrons"?
The photoelectric effect in a metal ejects electrons from the conduction band. These electrons are not "bound" to any atom.
Maybe you could explain in more detail what do you mean with your question.
 
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