Explain the photoelectric effect, when does it occur and what is its significance in understanding the nature of light ? (6)

metal (unlike insulators ) contains free electrons (1)

kinetic energy transferred from the light incident on the surface to the free electrons (1)

The maximum kinetic energy of the electrons depends on the frequency (or wavelength) of light and not on the intensity (1)

SOME of the free electrons will be liberated from the surface (1)

No electrons are liberated from the surface until a certain energy /frequency / wavelength of light is incident ie. the threshold energy /frequency / wavelength . (1)

Proves that light travels in discrete quanta (1)

HR
Answered by Helena R. Physics tutor

1897 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explaining how capacitors work


One of the decays of potassium (A=40, Z=19) results in an excited argon atom with excess energy of 1.50 Mev. In order to be stable, it emits a gamma photon. What frequency and wavelength has this gamma photon?


How can the average speedx of a gas molecule be derived?


A bullet is fired horizontally from a gun at a height of 1.5m at 280m/s. Calculate the time taken for it to hit the ground. A second bullet is fired from an adjacent gun at 370m/s. Calculate the distance it travel before the first bullet hits the ground.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning