1 Physics -- Photons

Explain why photoelectric effect cannot be observed with all wave lengths of light ? 

Explain why photoelectric effect cannot be observed with all wave lengths of light ? 

The amount of energy required to eject an electron just out of the surface of metal is called work function of metal. The frequency of the light required for this purpose is called threshold frequency f0. Then we have

Φ = h f =  hc / λ0 where λ =  threesold wavelength = wave length

corresponding to threshold frequency. It is clear that a frequency less than f0 (i.e. wavelength greater than A) will be unable to produce the photo electric effect. This is the reason why photoelectric effect cannot be observed with all wavelengths of light.

More questions on Photons

Why do holes have effective mass although being vacant energy states ?

Hi Sushin,

Insolid state physics, a particle'seffective mass(often denoted) is themassthat itseemsto have when responding to forces. Here, although we define and understand holes as vacancies, when they "move" towards the positive terminal under the electrical field, the concept of effective mass is introduced.

Hope this helps.

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