1. What is the Photoelectric Effect?

The photoelectric effect is the emission of electrons when light shines on a material. The maximum kinetic energy of emitted electrons (K_max) is given by K_max = hf - φ, where h is Planck's constant, f is frequency, and φ is the work function of the material.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the photoelectric effect equation:

Where:

• \( K_{max} \) — Maximum kinetic energy of emitted electrons (eV)
• \( h \) — Planck's constant (4.136 × 10^-15 eV·s)
• \( f \) — Frequency of incident light (Hz)
• \( \phi \) — Work function of the material (eV)

Explanation: The energy of the photon (hf) must exceed the work function (φ) for electrons to be emitted. Any excess energy becomes the electron's kinetic energy.

3. Importance of Photoelectric Effect

Details: The photoelectric effect demonstrated the particle nature of light and was crucial in the development of quantum mechanics. It's also the principle behind many technologies including solar panels and photodetectors.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hz and work function in eV. The work function must be less than the photon energy (hf) for electron emission to occur.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens if hf < φ?
A: No electrons are emitted, regardless of light intensity. This demonstrates the quantum nature of light.

Q2: How does intensity affect the photoelectric effect?
A: Higher intensity increases the number of emitted electrons but not their maximum kinetic energy.

Q3: What is the threshold frequency?
A: The minimum frequency needed to eject electrons: f₀ = φ/h.

Q4: Why is the work function material-dependent?
A: Different materials have different electron binding energies, affecting how much energy is needed to eject electrons.

Q5: What are typical work function values?
A: Common values range from 2-5 eV for metals (e.g., 2.3 eV for sodium, 4.7 eV for copper).