Fundamentals of Physics Extended (10th Edition)

Published by Wiley
ISBN 10: 1-11823-072-8
ISBN 13: 978-1-11823-072-5

Chapter 38 - Photons and Matter Waves - Questions - Page 1180: 2a

Answer

The maximum kinetic energy of the electrons does not depend on the intensity of the incident light.

Work Step by Step

We can state the photoelectric equation: $hf = K_{max}+ \Phi$ $\Phi$ is the work function and it is a property of the target material. If energy is transferred from a photon to an electron such that $hf \gt \Phi$, then the electron can escape from the material with a certain kinetic energy. The frequency of an individual photon and the work function of the material determine the maximum kinetic energy of an electron when it is ejected, but the intensity of the incident light does not. The maximum kinetic energy of the electrons does not depend on the intensity of the incident light.
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