Basic question on photon interacting with electron

In summary, the conversation discusses the photoelectric effect and how there is a specific wavelength at which photons can interact with electrons in a metal. If the wavelength is greater than this particular wavelength, no matter how many photons hit the metal, there will be no current. The conversation also explores the possibility of an electron absorbing multiple photons at a time, with the conclusion that it is very improbable and would not result in a measurable current. The questioner's understanding is clarified and their questions are resolved.
  • #1
fluidistic
Gold Member
3,950
264
If I remember well what I've read, a photon can hit an electron say in a metal (I think I refer to the photoelectric effect). We noticed that there is a particular wavelength for the photons from which they stop to be able to interact with electrons. If the wavelength of the photon is greater than this particular wavelength, then no matter how many photons hit the metal, there will be no current in the metal. While if the wavelength is equal to or lesser than the particular wavelength, then there will be a current.

I don't understand why if the wavelength is greater than the particular wavelength, no matter how many photons hit the electrons, they won't move through the metal and create a current. I don't understand why it's impossible for an electron to absorb 2 photons at a time. If the electron could absorb several photons at a time, then it would have the required energy to move through the metal and create current.
So, is it really impossible for an electron to absorb more than 1 photon at a time? Or is it very improbable? It really makes a difference to me whether there's an impossibility or an improbability. If there's a probability of [tex]10^{-10^6}[/tex], it's still possible to me.
In case of an impossibility, can you explain me why it's impossible for electrons to absorb more than 1 photon at a time? I just don't get it.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
It's just very improbable. To the extent that you probably can't measure the current caused by it.
 
  • #3
Thank you. Makes perfect sense. Questions solved.
 

FAQ: Basic question on photon interacting with electron

What is a photon?

A photon is a fundamental particle that is the basic unit of light and other forms of electromagnetic radiation. It has no mass and travels at the speed of light.

How does a photon interact with an electron?

A photon interacts with an electron through the electromagnetic force. When a photon collides with an electron, the electron absorbs the photon's energy and is then able to move to a higher energy level.

What happens when a photon is absorbed by an electron?

When a photon is absorbed by an electron, the electron gains energy and moves to a higher energy level. This can result in the emission of a new photon with a lower energy level.

Can photons also be emitted by electrons?

Yes, electrons can also emit photons. When an electron moves from a higher energy level to a lower energy level, it releases energy in the form of a photon.

How do photons play a role in the photoelectric effect?

The photoelectric effect is the emission of electrons from a metal surface when it is exposed to light. This phenomenon is explained by the interaction between photons and electrons. The energy from the photons is absorbed by the electrons, causing them to be ejected from the metal surface.

Back
Top