Stopping Potential and kinetic potential

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of stopping potential in the context of kinetic energy calculations in physics. The stopping potential (Vs) is defined as the voltage difference between the emitter (where light shines) and the collector (where electrons travel), typically resulting in a positive value. The maximum kinetic energy is calculated using the equation max kinetic_energy = e * Vs, where 'e' represents the elementary charge (1.602 x 10^-19 C). The participants clarify that the sign of the charge used in calculations affects the interpretation of voltage and kinetic energy, emphasizing the importance of unit consistency.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of stopping potential in physics
  • Familiarity with kinetic energy equations
  • Knowledge of elementary charge (e) and its value (1.602 x 10^-19 C)
  • Basic concepts of voltage and electric potential difference
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between stopping potential and photoelectric effect
  • Study the implications of charge sign in kinetic energy calculations
  • Explore the concept of electric potential difference in circuits
  • Learn about the role of work function in electron emission
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Students studying physics, particularly those focused on electromagnetism and the photoelectric effect, as well as educators and professionals explaining concepts related to stopping potential and kinetic energy.

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[URGENT! Stopping Potential~~~~~~~#######~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Homework Statement



max Kinetic_energy= e*Vs=hf-work_function

Vs is the stopping potential


The attempt at a solution

I am wondering, does this stopping potential refers the voltage difference of
V_Emitter (where the line shines on) - V_collector(where the electron travels to), and thus, the stopping potential is usually positive?

Also, for that equation max kinetic_energy= e*Vs, 'e' is just the charge= +ve 1.602*10^-19?
so that the max kinetic energy in this case, (+5 V)*(+ 1.602*10^-19)= +ve number?
 

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I am wondering, does this stopping potential refers the voltage difference of
V_Emitter (where the line shines on) - V_collector(where the electron travels to), and thus, the stopping potential is usually positive?
If you use e as elementary charge, it has to be positive.
If you use the electron charge, you need the opposite direction, and a negative voltage. That is just a matter of definition.
so that the max kinetic energy in this case, (+5 V)*(+ 1.602*10^-19)= +ve number?
What do you mean with "+ve number"? If you add units, you will get the right result.
 

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