What is the work function of the metal?

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SUMMARY

The work function of the metal is determined to be approximately 3.108 eV based on the photoelectric effect. When light of 300 nm wavelength strikes the metal plate, photoelectrons are emitted with a speed of 0.002c. The calculation involves using the equation 0.5mv² = hc/wavelength - work function, where the mass used is that of an electron. The photon energy is calculated from the wavelength, and the excess energy is accounted for to find the work function.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the photoelectric effect
  • Familiarity with the equation for kinetic energy (0.5mv²)
  • Knowledge of Planck's constant (h) and the speed of light (c)
  • Basic concepts of electron mass and energy units (eV)
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to calculate photon energy using the equation E = hc/wavelength
  • Study the principles of the photoelectric effect in detail
  • Explore the relationship between kinetic energy and work function in photoemission
  • Investigate different metals and their respective work functions
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and researchers interested in the photoelectric effect and the properties of metals in relation to electron emission.

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Light of 300 nm wavelength strikes a metal plate, and photoelectrons are produced moving as fast of 0.002c. What is the work function of the metal?
 
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What have you tried so far? Please show what work you've done. We don't give out solutions here.
 
I don't know what equations to use. Do I have to use the moving speed to find the energy, but I don't know how to use that 300nm since it's not the cutoff wavelength.
 
The electrons have an "excess" energy: so the work function should equal the difference between the photon energy and the excess energy.
 
Should I use 0.5mv^2=hc/wavelength-work function, then what should I use for the mass in 0.5mv^2, the mass of an electron?
 
Yes, you use the mass of an electron.
 
So I have 3.108 for the answer of the work function
 
is that right?
 
Seems reasonable to me.
 
  • #10
Your answer should contain the correct unit, though!
 
  • #11
3.108eV
 
  • #12
okay, that sounds like the right order of magnitude.
 

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