Question

What is the work function (\[\phi_0\]) of a metal?

Options

• The energy supplied to all electrons during electrical conduction

• The energy gained by an electron when accelerated through a potential difference of 1 volt

• The minimum energy required by an electron to escape from the surface of a metal

• The energy required for an electron to move inside a metal

Answer 1

The work function (\[\phi_0\]) is the minimum energy needed for an electron to escape a metal surface. It is not the energy needed merely to move within the metal.