Question 50
Modern PhysicsIn photoelectric effect, electrons will leave the metal surface when illuminated by light of appropriate frequency if the photon energy is
- A.greater than the work function
- B.less than the work function
- C.equal to the work function
- D.equal to the maximum kinetic energy of the electrons
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: A (greater than the work function)
Explanation
An electron escapes only if the photon gives it more energy than the work function; the extra energy becomes its kinetic energy.