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

2128 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Calculate the length of a 120m (as measured by the astronaut) spaceship travelling at 0.85c as measured by a stationary observer


What is the difference between electromotive force and potential difference?


What is the difference between distance and displacement?


The mercury atoms in a fluorescent tube are excited and then emit photons in the ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Explain (i) how the mercury atoms become excited and (ii) how the excited atoms emit photons.


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