Why does the stopping potential not depend on the intensity of incident light?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between stopping potential and the intensity of incident light in the context of the photoelectric effect. Participants explore the theoretical underpinnings of this relationship, referencing the Einstein photoelectric effect equation and the role of material properties.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants reference the Einstein photoelectric effect equation to explain the stopping potential's dependence on material properties rather than light intensity.
  • One participant asserts that the stopping potential is influenced by the energy of incoming photons, suggesting that higher energy photons can lead to different stopping potentials for the same material.
  • Another participant emphasizes that the intensity of light does not affect whether electrons are liberated, indicating that wavelength and frequency are the key factors.
  • There is a misunderstanding regarding the relationship between stopping potential and work function, which is clarified by participants through further discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the factors influencing stopping potential, particularly regarding the role of light intensity versus photon energy and material properties. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

Some participants exhibit confusion about the definitions and relationships between stopping potential, work function, and the effects of light intensity, leading to clarifications that do not fully resolve the underlying questions.

P-Jay1
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Why does the stopping potential not depend on the intensity of incident light?
 
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P-Jay1 said:
Why does the stopping potential not depend on the intensity of incident light?

Look at the Einstein photoelectric effect equation that describes light's energy with respect to the work function of the material. Try to make the connection between that equation, and your question.

Zz.
 
ZapperZ said:
Look at the Einstein photoelectric effect equation that describes light's energy with respect to the work function of the material. Try to make the connection between that equation, and your question.

Zz.

I did and I can't!
 
The stopping potential depends on the material, and has no relation to the incoming light.
 
P-Jay1 said:
I did and I can't!

Write it down here and tell me what you think the equation means.

Meir Achuz said:
The stopping potential depends on the material, and has no relation to the incoming light.

Er.. yes it does. Use higher energy photons on the SAME material, and the stopping potential will be different.

Zz.
 
Sorry, I thought he meant the work function.
I just read it carelessly.
 
It's simply because the intensity of light does not determine whether or not electrons is liberated or not. In other words wavelength and frequent are the only determinant here.
 

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