Photoelectric effect

Photoelectric effect

1. Free electrons on the surface of a metal absorb energy from the light, making them vibrate.

   • If an electron absorbs enough energy, the bonds holding it to the metal break and the electron is released.
     • The electrons emitted are called photoelectrons.

2. The work functional energy depends on the metal used.

3. If the energy gained from the photon is greater than the work functional energy, the electron can be emitted.

   • For electrons to be released        hf ≧ φ
   • If it isn't, the electron will vibrate and then release the energy as another photon.
     • The metal will heat up, but no electrons will be emitted.

4. The kinetic energy of the electrons is independent of the intensity because they can only absorb one photon at a time.