Solution
a
When the intensity of the source of light for the interference pattern is reduced greatly, the number of photons is reduced greatly. This is because intensity is directly proportional to the number of photons
Answer
Key Concept
Intensity of Light:
The intensity of light is directly proportional to the number of photons. When the intensity is reduced, the number of photons is also reduced.
Explanation
Reducing the intensity of light means fewer photons are emitted, which directly affects the interference pattern.
Solution
a
Photoelectrons are emitted almost immediately from the metal surface after light of a suitable wavelength strikes it because only one photon is required to liberate one electron. This is a fundamental principle of the photoelectric effect
Answer
Key Concept
Photoelectric Effect:
The photoelectric effect occurs when photons of sufficient energy strike a metal surface and liberate electrons. Each photon can liberate one electron if its energy is greater than the work function of the metal.
Explanation
The immediate emission of photoelectrons is explained by the fact that a single photon can liberate a single electron if it has enough energy.
Solution
a
When the light intensity is increased but the frequency remains the same, the number of photoelectrons emitted increases while the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons remains the same. This is because the energy of each photon (and thus the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons) depends on the frequency, not the intensity
Answer
Key Concept
Photoelectric Effect:
The number of photoelectrons emitted is proportional to the intensity of the light, while the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons depends on the frequency of the light.
Explanation
Increasing the intensity increases the number of photons, and thus the number of photoelectrons, but does not change the energy of each photon.
Solution
a
The minimum energy of an incoming photon required to eject a photoelectron is equal to the work function of the metal. Given the work function is 2.0eV, we convert this to joules: 2.0eV×1.6×10−19J/eV=3.2×10−19J Answer
Key Concept
Work Function:
The work function is the minimum energy required to eject an electron from a metal surface. It is often given in electron volts (eV) and can be converted to joules (J).
Explanation
The work function represents the minimum energy needed for a photon to eject an electron, and this energy can be converted from eV to J for calculation purposes.