Plotting energy as a function of wavelength

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on plotting the energy of an electron as a function of wavelength, given a work function of W=2eV. The equation used is E=hv-W, which simplifies to E=h(c/lambda)-2. The resulting graph approaches infinity as the wavelength approaches zero and intersects the x-axis at 6000 angstroms, confirming the expected behavior of electron energy in relation to wavelength. This shape is consistent with the principles of quantum mechanics, particularly in the context of photon energy and electron emission.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the photoelectric effect
  • Familiarity with the equation E=hv
  • Knowledge of wavelength and energy relationships
  • Basic graphing skills for plotting functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the photoelectric effect in detail
  • Learn about the implications of Planck's constant (h) in quantum mechanics
  • Investigate the relationship between wavelength and photon energy
  • Study the behavior of gamma rays and their energy characteristics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying quantum mechanics, physics educators, and anyone interested in the photoelectric effect and its graphical representations.

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Homework Statement



Given work function W=2eV
Plot energy of an electron knocked off with respect to wavelength

Homework Equations


E=hv-W

The Attempt at a Solution


E=h (c/(lambda))-2
I plotted this and I get a function that goes to infinity with zero wavelength and crosses the x-axis at 6000 angstroms. I was just wondering if this shape of graph makes sense of if I'm just way off[/B]
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Very small wavelengths correspond to gamma rays, and the energy diverges if you go close to zero.
Yes, that is the expected shape for the maximal energy of electrons.
 

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