The maximum kinetic energy of photoelectrons emitted from a surface wh...
Explanation:
When a photon of energy hν falls on the surface of a metal, an electron is emitted if the energy of the photon is greater than or equal to the work function of the metal.
The maximum kinetic energy of the emitted photoelectrons is given by:
K.E. max = hν - φ
where h is Planck’s constant, ν is the frequency of the incident radiation, and φ is the work function of the metal.
Given that the energy of the incident photons is 6 eV and the maximum kinetic energy of the emitted photoelectrons is 4 eV, we have:
K.E. max = 4 eV
hν = 6 eV
Substituting these values in the above equation, we get:
4 eV = 6 eV - φ
φ = 2 eV
Therefore, the work function of the metal is 2 eV.
When a potential difference (stopping potential) V is applied between the metal surface and the collector electrode, the photoelectrons are brought to rest and the maximum kinetic energy of the emitted photoelectrons is equal to the potential energy gained by the electrons in moving from the metal surface to the collector electrode.
Therefore, we have:
K.E. max = eV
where e is the electronic charge.
Substituting the value of K.E. max and e in the above equation, we get:
4 eV = eV
V = 4 V
Hence, the stopping potential is 4 volts. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.
The maximum kinetic energy of photoelectrons emitted from a surface wh...
Simply remember that the surfaces total threshold frequency=stopping potential