What is the Correct Way to Calculate the Work Function of a Material?

In summary, a monochromatic light with a wavelength of 254 nm causes a photocurrent to flow on a particular metal surface. A stopping voltage of 2.30 V is required to block the photocurrent completely. To find the work function of the material, the stopping potential must be converted to energy units (J). After correcting the units, the calculation should result in a positive value for the work function.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



When a monochromatic light with a wavelength of 254 nm falls onto the surface of a particular metal it causes a photocurrent to flow. A stopping voltage of 2.30 V is required to completely block the photocurrent. What is the work function of the material?

Homework Equations


KE = hf - Wo
hf = hc/wavelength


The Attempt at a Solution


I keep getting a negative number which is an impossible answer for a work function.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
Before solving convert stopping potential to energy units.(J)
Show your calculations.
 
  • #3
Thanks for pointing that out. I had the wrong units which messed up everything.
 

Related to What is the Correct Way to Calculate the Work Function of a Material?

1. What is work function?

The work function, also known as the energy barrier or the ionization energy, is the minimum amount of energy required to remove an electron from the surface of a solid material. It is a characteristic property of a material and can vary depending on factors such as the material's composition and surface conditions.

2. How is work function determined?

Work function can be determined through various experimental techniques, such as photoelectric effect, Kelvin probe, and field emission measurements. In these methods, the energy of photons or electrons is used to eject electrons from the surface of the material, and the work function is calculated based on the energy of the incident particles and the energy of the ejected electrons.

3. What is the significance of work function?

The work function of a material is important in understanding its electronic properties, such as conductivity and surface reactivity. It also plays a crucial role in applications such as solar cells, where a low work function is desirable for efficient energy conversion.

4. How does work function vary with temperature?

The work function of a material typically decreases with increasing temperature. This is due to the thermal excitation of electrons, which leads to an increased number of electrons with energies above the work function, making it easier for them to be ejected from the surface.

5. Can work function be modified?

Yes, the work function of a material can be modified by changing its surface conditions, such as by adsorbing or depositing different materials on the surface. External factors such as electric fields and temperature can also affect the work function. Additionally, the work function can be modified through chemical processes, such as doping or surface treatments.

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