When light above the threshold frequency of a metal is shone on the metal, photoelectrons are emitted. If the power of the light halves, are the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons and/or the number of photoelectrons altered, and if so, how?

When the power of the light is halved, there are half as many photons per unit time. Therefore, the number of photoelectrons emitted is also halved. The maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons depends on the frequency of the light, so the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons does not change, because the frequency of the light has not changed.

SS
Answered by Sam S. Physics tutor

1904 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How might you use sound waves to smash a glass? What are other examples of resonance in everyday life?


"An inclined plane at an angle of 25 degrees to the horizontal has a pulley at its top. A 30kg block on the plane is connected to a freely hanging 20kg block by means of a cord passing over the pulley. From rest how far will the 20kg block fall in 2s?


If a bulb has a current of 20mA and voltage of 5V, and the current cost of electricity is £3 for a kW/hour. How much money would you spend to power the bulb for 8 hours? Are these good estimates for the current, voltage and cost of electricity?


Why does gravitational potential energy have a negative value?


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