Explain the photoelectric effect, when does it occur and what is its significance in understanding the nature of light ? (6)

metal (unlike insulators ) contains free electrons (1)

kinetic energy transferred from the light incident on the surface to the free electrons (1)

The maximum kinetic energy of the electrons depends on the frequency (or wavelength) of light and not on the intensity (1)

SOME of the free electrons will be liberated from the surface (1)

No electrons are liberated from the surface until a certain energy /frequency / wavelength of light is incident ie. the threshold energy /frequency / wavelength . (1)

Proves that light travels in discrete quanta (1)

Answered by Helena R. Physics tutor

1535 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is resistivity?


When does a pendulum bob move fastest and why?


Describe the photoelectric effect.


A body with speed v is projected from the surface of the earth(mass M & radius R). Find the maximum distance from the earth that this body reaches before returning back to earth, as a function of the initial speed v, M, R and the gravitational constant G


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences