Plotting energy as a function of wavelength

In summary, the conversation discusses the plot of the energy of an electron knocked off with respect to wavelength, given a work function of 2eV. The resulting graph shows a function that goes to infinity at zero wavelength and crosses the x-axis at 6000 angstroms, which is expected for the maximal energy of electrons. The energy is calculated using the equation E=hv-W, with very small wavelengths corresponding to gamma rays and the energy diverging near zero.
  • #1
Dextrine
102
7

Homework Statement



Given work function W=2eV
Plot energy of an electron knocked off with respect to wavelength

Homework Equations


E=hv-W

The Attempt at a Solution


E=h (c/(lambda))-2
I plotted this and I get a function that goes to infinity with zero wavelength and crosses the x-axis at 6000 angstroms. I was just wondering if this shape of graph makes sense of if I'm just way off[/B]
 
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  • #2
Very small wavelengths correspond to gamma rays, and the energy diverges if you go close to zero.
Yes, that is the expected shape for the maximal energy of electrons.
 

FAQ: Plotting energy as a function of wavelength

1. What is the purpose of plotting energy as a function of wavelength?

The purpose of plotting energy as a function of wavelength is to visualize the relationship between the two variables. This type of plot is commonly used in fields such as physics and chemistry to understand the electromagnetic spectrum and the behavior of particles at different energy levels.

2. How is energy calculated from wavelength?

Energy can be calculated from wavelength using the equation E = hc/λ, where E is energy, h is Planck's constant, c is the speed of light, and λ is the wavelength. This equation shows that energy and wavelength are inversely proportional - as wavelength increases, energy decreases.

3. What information can be gained from a plot of energy vs. wavelength?

A plot of energy vs. wavelength can provide information about the energy levels of different particles and the behavior of electromagnetic radiation. It can also be used to identify specific wavelengths of light or energy transitions between energy levels.

4. How is energy measured in this type of plot?

In a plot of energy vs. wavelength, energy is typically measured in units of joules (J) or electron volts (eV). Joules are the standard unit of energy in the SI system, while electron volts are commonly used in physics and chemistry to measure the energy of particles.

5. Can this type of plot be used for all types of energy and wavelength?

Yes, this type of plot can be used for all types of energy and wavelength. It is a universal tool for visualizing the relationship between energy and wavelength, regardless of the specific energy source or type of radiation being studied.

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