When does the photoelectric effect occur?
- Leaving Cert Physics - Question (h) - 2016
Question (h)
When does the photoelectric effect occur?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:When does the photoelectric effect occur?
- Leaving Cert Physics - Question (h) - 2016
Step 1
When a photon/light/em radiation strikes a surface
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Answer
The photoelectric effect occurs when radiation in the form of photons strikes the surface of a material, typically a metal. This interaction is essential for the photoelectric effect to take place.
Step 2
with a suitable frequency/energy
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Answer
For the photoelectric effect to occur, the energy of the incoming photons must be above a certain threshold, which corresponds to a specific frequency. This frequency is known as the threshold frequency. If the energy of the incoming radiation is insufficient, electrons will not be emitted from the surface.
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