Planck's Constant measured in photoelectric effect

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the work function of a metal using the photoelectric effect, specifically with measurements taken at two different wavelengths (285 nm and 207 nm) and their corresponding stopping potentials (2.61 V and 4.53 V). The relevant equation used is hf = eV + φ, where h is Planck's constant, e is the elementary charge, V is the stopping potential, and φ is the work function. The user struggles with isolating φ and seeks clarification on whether two wavelengths are necessary for accurate measurement. The second part of the problem involves calculating Planck's constant based on the experimental data.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the photoelectric effect and its equations
  • Familiarity with Planck's constant and its significance in quantum mechanics
  • Knowledge of basic algebra for manipulating equations
  • Experience with experimental physics and data analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the photoelectric effect equation hf = eV + φ
  • Learn how to calculate Planck's constant from experimental data
  • Study the implications of work function in different metals
  • Explore advanced laboratory techniques for measuring stopping potential
USEFUL FOR

Students in advanced physics courses, laboratory technicians conducting experiments on the photoelectric effect, and educators teaching quantum mechanics concepts.

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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


[tex]hf=eV+\phi[/tex]
Find [tex]\phi[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



(1)[tex]hf_{1}=eV_{1}+\phi[/tex]

(2)[tex]hf_{2}=eV_{2}+\phi[/tex]

divide 1 by 2 to get rid of h, and we get

[tex]\frac{f_{1}}{f_{2}}=\frac{eV_{1}+\phi}{eV_{2}+\phi}[/tex]

i can't seem to solve for [tex]\phi[/tex] 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:

[tex]e=1.6022*10^-19 C[/tex]

[tex]f_{1}=285*10^-9 m[/tex]

[tex]f_{2}=207*10^-9 m[/tex]

[tex]V_{1}=2.61V[/tex]

[tex]V_{2}=4.53V[/tex]

where am i going wrong? please help
 
Last edited:
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Should you need two wavelengths to measure the work function in this experiment?
 
my apologies, i should have added something not stated in the problem. the second part of this problem is stated:

2. What is Planck's constant based on this measurement?

from this i assume that h is an unknown for part 1. my reasoning is that this is an experiment, and Planck's constant is not exact; it is just supposed to be calculated from four measurements someone took in a lab.
 

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