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

1903 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the forces involved in a pendulum set up.


What's the difference between inertial and gravitational mass?


In a circuit with a thermistor and bulb, what happens to the brightness of the bulb as the temperature increases?


Explain why a transformer is used in electrical power lines.


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