Photoelectric Effect - Laboration

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on calculating Planck's constant and the work function of a metal plate using data from a photoelectric effect experiment. The experiment measures stopping voltage at two wavelengths: 546 nm (0.38 V) and 410 nm (1.13 V). The relevant equations include \(E_{F} = E_{K} + E_{0}\), \(E_{F} = \frac{hc}{\lambda}\), and \(U = \frac{E}{Q}\). The consensus is that solving the equations directly yields a single value for Planck's constant, affirming the validity of this approach over graphical methods.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the photoelectric effect
  • Familiarity with Planck's constant and work function concepts
  • Knowledge of the equations governing energy and voltage in photoelectric experiments
  • Basic skills in algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of Planck's constant from photoelectric effect experiments
  • Learn about the work function of different metals and its implications
  • Explore graphical methods for analyzing photoelectric effect data
  • Study the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and energy in electromagnetic radiation
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and researchers interested in experimental physics, particularly those focusing on the photoelectric effect and quantum mechanics.

Gunnar9711
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Homework Statement



"During a laboratory experiment with photoelectric effect, a metal plate is irradiated with light. The voltage that completely stops the beam of electrons is then measured.

When the wavelength is 546 nm, the voltage is 0,38 V. When the wavelength is 410 nm, the voltage is 1,13 V.

Calculate an experimental value for Planck's constant and the work function of the metal plate."

Homework Equations



<br /> E_{F} = E_{K} + E_{0} \\<br /> E_{F} = \frac{hc}{\lambda} \\<br /> U = \frac{E}{Q} \\<br />

The Attempt at a Solution



OY1ii.png

What I am wondering is, have I solved the problem correctly? I know many would address the problem by making a graph with the kinetic energy on the y-axis and the frequency on the x-axis... Thus I am not sure if my way works, however I believe it should...
So: Is my solution correct?
 
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You have two equations and two unknowns. This gives exactly one value for the Planck constant, not two - the difference you see comes from your rounding errors.
Drawing it would give the same result, but solving the equations on paper is better.
 
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