NEETPhysicsDual Nature of Matter
The work functions of three metals P, Q and R are 2.5 eV , 3.2 eV and 4.8 eV respectively. They are illuminated by a light of wavelength 310 nm . Which of these metals will emit photoelectrons, and what will be the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons emitted from the metal having the lowest work function? (Take hc = 1240 eV nm )
Options
- AP and Q ; 1.5 eV
- BP only ; 1.5 eV
- CP and Q ; 0.8 eV
- DR only ; 0.8 eV
Correct answer
A. P and Q ; 1.5 eV
Step-by-step solution
First, calculate the energy of the incident photon using the formula E = hc . E = 1240 eV nm 310 nm = 4.0 eV For photoelectric emission to take place, the incident photon energy must be greater than or equal to the work function of the metal ( E ). Comparing E with the given work functions: _ P = 2.5 eV _ Q = 3.2 eV _ R = 4.8 eV > 4.0 eV (No emission) Thus, metals P and Q will emit photoelectrons. The metal with the lowest work function is P ( _ P = 2.5 eV ). According to Einstein's photoelectric equation, the maxi