Why is the classical model of light insufficient in explaining the photoelectric effect?


In the classical model, light is a wave and it's energy depends on its intensity. This would predict electron emission at all wavelengths of light. So the model cannot explain the threshold frequency of light required to cause photo-emission. However, in the quantum model light is made of small discrete packets of energy (photons), whose energy is proportional to the light's frequency. The one-to-one interaction between photon and electron means in order for photo-emission to occur, each photon must have a minimum energy, hence a minimum threshold frequency for light.

RK
Answered by Roy K. Physics tutor

4309 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I calculate the hydrostatic pressure?


A ball is dropped from a 5.0m high window. Assuming air resistance is negligible, calculate the time taken for it to hit the ground.


What is the general equation for the alpha-decay of a nucleus X, with nucleon number A and proton number Z, into nucleon Y??


A metal detector consists of a battery providing an alternating current to a transmitter coil and a receiver coil connected to a loudspeaker. Using Faraday's Law of Induction explain how a metal detector works. (5 marks)


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