The Atom: wavelength, energy, kinetic energy, etc. of photons

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on understanding the relationships between energy, wavelength, and kinetic energy of photons in the context of basic physics equations. Key equations mentioned include E = hf, KE = hf + work function, and wavelength = h/mv, where h represents Planck's constant. The conversation highlights the confusion surrounding units such as Joules (J), electron-volts (eV), Hertz (Hz), and nanometers (nm). The user seeks clarity on how to apply these equations and units to solve specific physics problems related to photons and electrons.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Planck's constant (h)
  • Basic knowledge of energy units: Joules (J) and electron-volts (eV)
  • Familiarity with frequency and wavelength concepts
  • Knowledge of the mass and speed of electrons
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of Planck's constant and its applications in quantum mechanics
  • Learn how to convert between Joules and electron-volts (eV)
  • Study the relationship between frequency and wavelength in electromagnetic waves
  • Explore the implications of kinetic energy equations in photon interactions
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students in physics courses, particularly those struggling with concepts related to photons, energy calculations, and the application of fundamental equations in quantum mechanics.

278225mw
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here are the problems that I need help with:

http://imgur.com/a/fERMC/1

I am afraid that I know not much information about the questions. Sadly, I am enrolled in a poorly written Physics class online. I am not looking for the answers, but just how to go about finding them. The book never explained what eV was, but gave be basic equations like: E = hf, KE = hf + work function, and wavelength = h/mv

h is always Planck's constant.

It would be great to know the equations, units, etc. I can use. Because I am confused with Jules and Hz and nm and eV, etc.

Help? I am stuck. Thanks in advance!
 
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278225mw said:
I am afraid that I know not much information about the questions. Sadly, I am enrolled in a poorly written Physics class online. I am not looking for the answers, but just how to go about finding them. The book never explained what eV was, but gave be basic equations like: E = hf, KE = hf + work function, and wavelength = h/mv

ok so we have three equations:

E=hf ; E=Φ+KEmax and λ=h/mv

The first question is asking for wavelength 'λ', so in the three equations which do you think you have to use? What is the mass of an electron and what is the speed of electron in the question?

For the second question, you are given the energy of the electron, so you have 'E' and you want to get 'λ'. What is the frequency of the photon?

278225mw said:
It would be great to know the equations, units, etc. I can use. Because I am confused with Jules and Hz and nm and eV, etc.!

Joule and eV (electron-volts) are two units used to represent energy. For energy sometimes dealing with electrons or photons, eV is used.'e' is the elementary charge of an electron which is 1.6x10-19C.

so 1 eV= 1.6x10-19CV = 1.6x10-19 J.

Hz is a unit of frequency.

nm is a measure if length, it means 'nanometer'. The prefix 'nano' means 10-9. S0 200nm is the same as 200x10-9m.
 

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