In the Photoelectric Effect, what is mean by 'threshold frequency' and how does the magnitude a photons frequency effect the electron it is absorbed by?

The threshold frequency is the minimum frequency a photon can be and still just overcome the work function (Φ) of a particular material. The threshold frequency is directly proportional to the work function and is given by f=E/h, where E is equal to Φ, f is the threshold frequency and h is Planck's constant.Providing the frequency of the photon is greater than the threshold frequency, the electron absorbing the photon will escape the material. However, if the frequency of the photon is greater than this the electron will have excess energy after escaping the surface of the material, which is present as kinetic energy, given by Ek = E - Φ (E is given by E=hf).

Answered by Josh H. Physics tutor

6377 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you prove Kepler's Third Law?


What's the difference between inertial and gravitational mass?


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.


There is a train A. On the roof of A is another frictionless train B of mass Mb. A mass Mc hangs off the front of A and is attached to the front of B by rope and frictionless pulley. How fast should A accelerate so that B wont fall off the roof of A.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy