jimmypoopins
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Homework Statement
In an advanced laboratory class a student performs the photoelectric experiment. Ultraviolet light is shone on a particular metal and the stopping potential is measured at the same time. It is found that 2.61 V is needed to stop all the electrons when the wavelength of the light is 285 nm, and 4.53 V for a wavelength of 207 nm. What is the work function of the metal?
Homework Equations
hf=eV+\phi
Find \phi
The Attempt at a Solution
(1)hf_{1}=eV_{1}+\phi
(2)hf_{2}=eV_{2}+\phi
divide 1 by 2 to get rid of h, and we get
\frac{f_{1}}{f_{2}}=\frac{eV_{1}+\phi}{eV_{2}+\phi}
i can't seem to solve for \phi and get the correct answer. I've tried doing it both algebraically(sp, sry) and with a calculator. possibly I'm putting the numbers in wrong? i have:
e=1.6022*10^-19 C
f_{1}=285*10^-9 m
f_{2}=207*10^-9 m
V_{1}=2.61V
V_{2}=4.53V
where am i going wrong? please help
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