The maximum wavelength of electromagnetic waves that can cause the emission of electrons from the metal is approximately 700 nm.
Solution
a
Given Data: The wavelength of the electromagnetic wave (λ) is 305nm, the kinetic energy of the emitted electron is 1.77eV, Planck's constant (h) is 6.626×10−34Js, and the speed of light (c) is 2.998×108m/s
b
Convert the given wavelength to meters: λ=305nm=305×10−9m
c
Calculate the energy of the photon using E=λhc:
E=305×10−9m6.626×10−34Js×2.998×108m/s≈6.51×10−19J
Convert this energy to electron volts (1 eV = 1.602×10−19J):
E=1.602×10−19J/eV6.51×10−19J≈4.06eV
d
Use the photoelectric equation Ephoton=ϕ+K.E. to find the work function (ϕ):
4.06eV=ϕ+1.77eVϕ=4.06eV−1.77eV=2.29eV
e
Calculate the maximum wavelength (λmax) using λmax=ϕhc:
λmax=2.29×1.602×10−19J6.626×10−34Js×2.998×108m/s≈5.43×10−7m
Convert this to nanometers:
λmax≈543nm
Key Concept
The photoelectric effect and the relationship between photon energy, work function, and kinetic energy of emitted electrons.
Explanation
The maximum wavelength of electromagnetic waves that can cause the emission of electrons from a metal is determined by the work function of the metal. The work function is the minimum energy required to emit an electron from the metal surface.