How long does an electron need to absorb energy

In summary, the conversation discusses the time it takes for an electron on a metallic surface with a work function of 0.3 eV to absorb an amount of energy equal to the work function. The given data is assumed to be incorrect, resulting in a discrepancy between the calculated answer and the expected answer of 16 minutes.
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crocodillo555
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Homework Statement


Light falling on a metallic surface of work function 0.3 eV gives energy to the surface at a rate of 5x
6edf763703b89d98480ec50f62ab6b47.png
W per square metre of the metal's surface. Assume that an electron on the metal's surface can absorb energy from the area of about 1x[PLAIN]http://www.matematyka.pl/latexrender/pictures/e/b/eb7bbf435df9523928fb3157689f9fcf.png.
How long will it take the electron to absorb an amount of energy equal to the work function?

I've tried to do this exercise but my result is 96 s while it should b 16 min.
I'd be thankful if anyone could help :xx
 
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  • #2
Hello and welcome to PF! As a newcomer, please note that we ask that you always use the template for submitting questions. This includes showing some detail of your calculation.

Your answer looks correct to me based on the numbers given. The answer of 16 min differs from your answer by a factor of 10. A work function of 0.3 eV seems very small to me. I wonder if it should have been stated as 3.0 eV.
 
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Thank you very much for your answer. :) Apparently there is mistake in data given in the exercise.
 

FAQ: How long does an electron need to absorb energy

How does an electron absorb energy?

An electron can absorb energy through various processes such as collision, photon absorption, and thermal excitation. In each of these processes, the electron gains energy from an external source and moves to a higher energy state.

What factors affect the time it takes an electron to absorb energy?

The time it takes for an electron to absorb energy depends on the energy level of the electron, the type of energy it is absorbing, and the environment it is in. The energy level of the electron determines how much energy it can absorb, while the type of energy and the environment can affect the efficiency of the absorption process.

Can the time it takes an electron to absorb energy be measured?

Yes, the time it takes an electron to absorb energy can be measured using techniques such as time-resolved spectroscopy. This method involves measuring the change in the electron's energy over a period of time and can provide information about the absorption process.

How long does it take for an electron to absorb energy from a photon?

The time it takes for an electron to absorb energy from a photon depends on the energy of the photon and the energy level of the electron. The higher the energy of the photon, the faster the absorption process will be. However, the exact time can vary and is influenced by other factors such as the environment.

Can an electron absorb energy indefinitely?

No, an electron cannot absorb energy indefinitely. Once it reaches its maximum energy level, it cannot absorb any more energy. Additionally, the absorbed energy can also be released through processes such as emission of light or heat, which can cause the electron to return to its original energy state.

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