SUMMARY
The discussion focuses on calculating the potential difference required to stop the fastest photoelectrons emitted from a nickel surface when exposed to ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 220 nm. The work function of nickel is given as 5.00 eV. The relevant equation used is h[c]/[\lambda] = Φ + eV, where h is Planck's constant (6.6 x 10^-34 Js) and c is the speed of light (3.0 x 10^8 m/s). The calculation reveals that the work function must be converted from eV to Joules, and the final answer must be expressed in volts, not meters per second.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of the photoelectric effect and its principles
- Familiarity with Planck's constant and its application in calculations
- Knowledge of unit conversions between electron volts (eV) and Joules
- Ability to manipulate and solve algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
- Learn about the conversion of electron volts to Joules for accurate energy calculations
- Study the implications of the photoelectric effect in modern physics
- Explore the use of Planck's constant in quantum mechanics
- Investigate common errors in unit conversions and dimensional analysis in physics problems
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and the photoelectric effect, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to energy calculations and unit conversions.