Math Problem Statement
The work function of a metal is ϕ eV. If λ nm UV light is incident on the photocathode, what is the stopping voltage of the photoelectrons in volts?
Solution
The stopping voltage () of the photoelectrons can be found using the photoelectric equation:
where:
- is the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons,
- is the energy of the incident photon,
- is the work function of the metal (in eV).
Since the stopping voltage corresponds to the kinetic energy of the electrons, we have:
Thus, the stopping voltage is:
Now, let's break this down further:
1. Energy of the photon
The energy of the photon can be calculated using the wavelength of the incident UV light () and Planck's equation:
where:
- is Planck's constant,
- is the speed of light,
- is the wavelength in meters.
To convert this energy to electronvolts (eV), we use the relation . Thus:
2. Stopping voltage formula
Substituting into the formula for the stopping voltage:
Since is already in eV and , the equation simplifies to:
Conclusion
The stopping voltage in volts is given by:
where:
- is the wavelength of the UV light in nm,
- is the work function of the metal in eV.
Would you like to go into more detail, or clarify any part of the solution?
Here are 5 related questions you might find interesting:
- How does increasing the wavelength affect the stopping voltage?
- What is the effect of increasing the work function on the photoelectric effect?
- Can the stopping voltage ever be negative? If yes, under what circumstances?
- How is the photoelectric effect explained in quantum mechanics?
- What happens if the photon energy is less than the work function?
Tip: The photoelectric effect provides direct evidence for the particle nature of light, confirming that light energy is quantized into photons.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Photoelectric Effect
Photon Energy
Work Function
Kinetic Energy
Formulas
V_stop = (1240 / λ) - ϕ
E_photon = 1240 / λ
E_kin = E_photon - ϕ
Theorems
Photoelectric Equation
Suitable Grade Level
Undergraduate Physics
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