Can you please explain the significance of photoelectric effect?

The photoelectric effect is the emission/removal of electrons, normally, from the surface of a metal. This is done as light is shone on the metal. This is a very useful proof that light can act as a particle, due to the fact that there is a threshold frequency, above which the photoelectric effect only works. The threshold frequency is the lowest frequency at which enough energy(known as the work function) is provided to the electron so that it can be removed from the surface of the metal. This proves that light behaves as a particle as it is evidence that the interaction between the photons of light and the electrons is one to one. Otherwise, if light could only behave as a wave, the photoelectric effect would occur regardless of the frequency of the light, and only have different time delays. 

KA
Answered by Khawaja A. Physics tutor

4767 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is a pendulum with a bob of the same size but larger mass than another bob damped more lightly?


A ball is kicked from a tower (50m) at a speed of 20m/s. How far away does the ball hit the ground?


How do I solve a problem about a mass on a slide?


Find the magnitude of the force on an electron that is travelling with velocity 2 x 10^4 ms^(-1) in the x direction through a uniform magnetic field of strength 2T in the y direction.


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 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences