Photoelectric Surface: Work Function & Kinetic Energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the photoelectric effect, specifically calculating the work function and kinetic energy of electrons ejected from a photoelectric surface with a threshold frequency of 4.62 X 1014 Hz. The work function was correctly calculated as 3.06 X 10-19 J using the equation W = hf, where h is Planck's constant and f is the threshold frequency. For part (b), the kinetic energy of the ejected electrons when illuminated with light of frequency 5.2 X 1014 Hz needs to be determined using the equation KE = hf - W.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the photoelectric effect
  • Familiarity with Planck's constant (h = 6.626 X 10-34 J·s)
  • Knowledge of the relationship between frequency and energy (E = hf)
  • Basic conversion between joules and electron volts (1 eV = 1.6 X 10-19 J)
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the kinetic energy of electrons using the equation KE = hf - W
  • Explore the implications of threshold frequency in photoelectric materials
  • Learn about the significance of the work function in different materials
  • Investigate the experimental setup for measuring photoelectric effects
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and the photoelectric effect, as well as educators looking for practical examples of these concepts.

potamus
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Homework Statement


A certain photoelectric surface has a threshold frequency of 4.62 X 10^14 Hz.
a) What is the photoelectric work function in joules?
b) The surface is illuminated with light that has a frequency of 5.2 X 10^14 Hz. What is the kinetic energy of the electrons ejected from the surface? Answer in joules and electron volts.

Homework Equations


1 eV = 1.6 X 10^19 J
W = hf


The Attempt at a Solution



a) 3.06 X 10^-19 J
b) I need help on! I have no idea which equation to use, etc. Thanks!
 
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potamus said:

Homework Statement


A certain photoelectric surface has a threshold frequency of 4.62 X 10^14 Hz.
a) What is the photoelectric work function in joules?
b) The surface is illuminated with light that has a frequency of 5.2 X 10^14 Hz. What is the kinetic energy of the electrons ejected from the surface? Answer in joules and electron volts.

Homework Equations


1 eV = 1.6 X 10^19 J
W = hf


The Attempt at a Solution



a) 3.06 X 10^-19 J
b) I need help on! I have no idea which equation to use, etc. Thanks!
Welcome to Physics Forums,

You're answer to part (a) is spot on. Now for part (b), what is the definition of the work function?
 

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