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

5509 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

If an alpha particle (Z = 2) of kinetic energy 7 MeV is incident on a gold nucleus (Z = 79), what is its closest distance of approach?


What is the difference between internal energy, temperature, and heat?


A stationary particle explodes into 3: A (to the left), B and C (both to the right). B has mass m and speed 3v. C has mass 2m and speed v. A has speed 2v. What is the mass of A in terms of m?


A space probe of mass 1000kg, moving at 200m/s, explosively ejects a capsule of mass 300kg. The speed of the probe after the explosion is 250m/s. What is the velocity of the capsule?


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