What is Photoelectric Emission?

What is Photoelectric  Emission?

Definition of Photoelectric Emission

Photoelectric emission is defined as the release of electrons from a metal surface when light hits it.

Quantum Theory

Light is made up of photons, and each photon’s energy depends on its frequency.

 Correlation formula

Where E is the energy of the photon, h is Planck’s constant, and ν is the frequency of the light.

The work function of a metal depends on its chemical makeup and physical structure, and it varies among metals. For example, potassium has a work function of about 2.3 eV, while platinum’s is about 6.3 eV.

Photon Energy and Work Function

For photoelectric emission to occur, a photon’s energy must be at least as much as the metal’s work function.

Factors Affecting Emission

The frequency of light, intensity of light, and potential difference between metal and anode affect photoelectric emission.

Applications

• Photocells

• Photomultipliers

• photoelectron spectroscopy.