Work function of silver given wavelength

In summary, the work function for silver can be calculated using the formula work function = hf, and is typically measured in eV. By dividing the calculated value in joules (7.60x10-19 J) by the conversion factor (1.6x10-19), the work function for silver is approximately 4.74 eV.
  • #1
sheepcountme
80
1

Homework Statement



If electrons can be ejected from a silver surface using light with wavelengths as large as 262 nm. What is the work function for silver?

Homework Equations



work function=hf
c=f[tex]\lambda[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



Given the wavelength, I solved for f = (3x108)/(262x10-9) = 1.15x1015

Then times by Planck's constant to get work function=(6.63x10-34)x(1.15x1015) gives me 7.60x10-19

...which is completely silly because the answer is supposed to be near 4.74
 
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  • #2
This answer is 7.60x10-19 J, usually work function is in eV.

Divide 7.60x10-19 by 1.6(10-19) to convert it to eV.
 
  • #3
OH! Haha, thank you!
 

1. What is the work function of silver?

The work function of silver is the minimum amount of energy required to remove an electron from the surface of a silver atom. It is typically measured in electron volts (eV) or joules (J) and varies depending on the wavelength of light shining on the silver surface.

2. How is the work function of silver measured?

The work function of silver is typically measured using a method called photoelectric emission. This involves shining a light of a known wavelength onto a silver surface and measuring the energy of the emitted electrons. By varying the wavelength of the light, the work function can be calculated.

3. Does the work function of silver change with different wavelengths of light?

Yes, the work function of silver changes with different wavelengths of light. This is because different wavelengths have different amounts of energy, and the work function is the minimum amount of energy needed to remove an electron. Shorter wavelengths have more energy, so they require a higher work function to remove an electron compared to longer wavelengths.

4. How does the work function of silver affect its electrical conductivity?

The work function of silver is directly related to its electrical conductivity. A lower work function means that electrons can be more easily removed from the surface, making silver a better conductor of electricity. This is why silver is commonly used in electrical components and wiring.

5. Can the work function of silver be altered?

Yes, the work function of silver can be altered by changing the chemical composition of the surface or by applying an external electric field. This can be useful in certain applications, such as in solar cells, where altering the work function can increase the efficiency of converting light into electricity.

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