Photoelectric effect, h/e ratio

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on calculating the h/e ratio and the work function of a metal using a graph of stopping voltage versus frequency. The user determined the slope (h/e value) to be 3.73e-15 V*s, which aligns with the online homework's requirements. However, the user incorrectly calculated the work function from the y-intercept, initially using a value of 0.64 V, leading to an erroneous energy conversion. The correct approach involves using the y-intercept value of 5 x 1014 Hz to accurately derive the work function.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the photoelectric effect and its equations
  • Familiarity with converting voltage to electron volts (eV)
  • Knowledge of graph interpretation in physics
  • Basic understanding of the constants: Planck's constant (h) and elementary charge (e)
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the calculation of the work function using the y-intercept in photoelectric experiments
  • Study the relationship between stopping voltage and frequency in the photoelectric effect
  • Learn about the significance of Planck's constant in quantum mechanics
  • Explore advanced applications of the photoelectric effect in modern physics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying quantum mechanics, physics educators, and researchers interested in the photoelectric effect and its applications in experimental physics.

Azndude51
Messages
4
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



From the following graph determine the experimental value of the h/e ratio and the work function of the metal. ( 1 Joule = 6.242 x 1018 eV )

https://chip.physics.purdue.edu/protected/Prelab221img/e9pp41.jpg

The work function Wo in eV from the y-intercept of the stopping voltage Vs vs. frequency f graph = ______ eV

I already found the slope (h/e value) to be 3.73e-15 V*s which is correct according to the the online homework.

Homework Equations



I would assume that all I need is e = 1.60e-19 C to get eV from V.

The Attempt at a Solution



The Y-int appears to be around .64 V (I used this value to help get the slope so it should be correct) so I multiply that by e to get 1.02e-19 eV. However, this answer is not correct, what am I doing wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You read the y intercept off at 5 \times 10^{14}\ Hz!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
5K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
5K