What is the work function of Nichrome?

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SUMMARY

The work function of Nichrome varies between 5.1 eV and 8 eV, contingent upon the cleanliness of its surface. A chemically clean surface, typically achieved through washing with strong acids like nitric acid, yields more consistent work function values. Alternative cleaning methods, such as using isopropanol and dry air, may not suffice to achieve the required cleanliness for accurate measurements. This information is crucial for applications in electronics and materials science.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of work function in materials science
  • Familiarity with surface cleanliness and its impact on electrical properties
  • Knowledge of chemical cleaning methods, particularly nitric acid usage
  • Basic principles of electron emission in conductive materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of surface cleanliness on the work function of metals
  • Explore the use of nitric acid for cleaning conductive materials
  • Learn about the electron emission process in materials with varying work functions
  • Investigate alternative cleaning methods and their effectiveness on Nichrome
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Materials scientists, electrical engineers, and anyone involved in the study or application of conductive materials, particularly in electronics and surface chemistry.

eigenmax
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Hello,
Does anyone know the work function of nichrome ? I can't seem to find it online.

Thanks,
 
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Hmmm. I found the following info, but I'm not sure it helps that much: http://lappddocs.uchicago.edu/documents/230/sendit
Depending on the cleanliness of the surface of the nichrome, work functions range from 5 to 8 eV.

Check the source to make sure it's what you actually need.
 
Drakkith said:
Hmmm. I found the following info, but I'm not sure it helps that much: http://lappddocs.uchicago.edu/documents/230/senditCheck the source to make sure it's what you actually need.
I had seen that but didn't notice what you pointed out. Any idea about very clean nichrome wire ?
Thanks.
 
Not sure, sorry.
 
eigenmax said:
Any idea about very clean nichrome wire ?
Not specifically, but 'chemically clean' often means washed with a strong acid, such as nitric.
 
Tom.G said:
Not specifically, but 'chemically clean' often means washed with a strong acid, such as nitric.
Hi,
Would washed with isopropanol and dry air count as clean ?
 
eigenmax said:
Would washed with isopropanol and dry air count as clean ?
It would help, but probably not qualify as 'chemically clean.' There are too many things that alcohols do not dissolve.

Hopefully someone else can jump in here with more detailed answers. I'm an electronics guy and chemistry is just random stuff I've picked up along the way.
 
Hello,
I'm the opposite to you then, with chemistry as my main area ! Anyway, thanks for your help, it's been very useful.
Thanks,
 
eigenmax said:
I had seen that but didn't notice what you pointed out. Any idea about very clean nichrome wire ?
Thanks.
The article says
The work function of Nichrome runs between 5.1 and 8 eV, depending on the cleanliness of the surface
 
  • #10
arydberg said:
The article says
The work function of Nichrome runs between 5.1 and 8 eV, depending on the cleanliness of the surface
Ok, thanks.
 

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