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Question
Briefly explain the three observed features which can be explained by Einstein’s photoelectric equation.
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Solution
Three observed features which can be explained by this equation are:
(i) Solar cells: Also called photo-voltaic cells. It converts solar radiations to electrical emf.
(ii) Television telecast: The dark and bright light part of images are interpreted as high and low electrical charges as given by photoelectric emission principle. These are further processed and transmitted.
(iii) Burglar alarm: The moment the ultraviolet radiation is cut due to theif, it stops the supply of photons and thus works as ‘off’ mode and the ring bells automatically.
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RELATED QUESTIONS
Light of wavelength 488 nm is produced by an argon laser which is used in the photoelectric effect. When light from this spectral line is incident on the emitter, the stopping (cut-off) potential of photoelectrons is 0.38 V. Find the work function of the material from which the emitter is made.
Is p − E/c valid for electrons?
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(A) The saturation photocurrent remains almost the same.
(B) The maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons is doubled.
Consider the situation of the previous problem. Consider the faster electron emitted parallel to the large metal plate. Find the displacement of this electron parallel to its initial velocity before it strikes the large metal plate.
(Use h = 6.63 × 10-34J-s = 4.14 × 10-15 eV-s, c = 3 × 108 m/s and me = 9.1 × 10-31kg)
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A student performs an experiment on photoelectric effect, using two materials A and B. A plot of Vstop vs ν is given in Figure.

- Which material A or B has a higher work function?
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Comment on whether it is consistent with Einstein’s theory:
Radiation of frequency 1015 Hz is incident on three photosensitive surfaces A, B and C. Following observations are recorded:
Surface A: no photoemission occurs
Surface B: photoemission occurs but the photoelectrons have zero kinetic energy.
Surface C: photo emission occurs and photoelectrons have some kinetic energy.
Using Einstein’s photo-electric equation, explain the three observations.
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