why does photoelectric emission occur only when there is a certain threshold frequency of incident radiation?

According to the particle theory of light, hf=φ+KEmax, so along with the minimum amount of energy required, there is a minimum frequency as well, φ= hfo. Thus, the incident photon must have a frequency higher than fo for photoelectric emmision to occur.

NP
Answered by Nikolas P. Physics tutor

3173 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

what is a standing wave and how is it formed ?


Explain the findings from Rutherford's alpha particle scattering experiment.


Hydrogen has a single proton and a single electron. Find the electric potential at a distance of 0.50 * 10^(-10) (m) from the proton.


Discuss how the graph of orbital velocities in rotational galaxies against distance from the galactic centre implies the existence of dark matter.


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning