What is the Wavelength of the Ejected Electron?

In summary, to find the wavelength of the ejected electron, we can use the equation KE = p^2 / 2m to calculate the momentum and then plug that value into the equation lambda = h/p. This will give us the desired wavelength.
  • #1
mirandab17
40
0

Homework Statement



The threshold frequency of a metal is 3.184 x 10^14 Hz. If a photon of wavelength 368 nm strikes the surface of the metal, what is the wavelength of the ejected electron?

Homework Equations


f (frequency) = c/(wavelength)
Eincident = Ethreshold + KE
E=fv(wavelength)

The Attempt at a Solution


Oh man... here it is. I bet I'm missing something huge but it's just been killing me.

photo 1 copy.jpg


photo 2 copy.jpg
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You're good up through the energy calculation. From there you can use:
$$KE = \frac{p^2}{2m}$$
to get a value for your momentum. Then just plug that number in to:
$$\lambda = \frac{h}{p}$$
and you get your answer.
 

Related to What is the Wavelength of the Ejected Electron?

1. What is the wavelength of ejected electrons?

The wavelength of ejected electrons is determined by the energy of the incident photons. According to the de Broglie relation, the wavelength is inversely proportional to the kinetic energy of the electrons. As the energy of the incident photons increases, the wavelength of the ejected electrons decreases.

2. How is the wavelength of ejected electrons measured?

The wavelength of ejected electrons can be measured using a device called an electron spectrometer. This instrument uses electric and magnetic fields to deflect the electrons and determine their wavelength based on their kinetic energy and velocity.

3. What factors affect the wavelength of ejected electrons?

The wavelength of ejected electrons is affected by the energy of the incident photons, the properties of the material being used (such as its work function), and the intensity of the incident light. Additionally, the angle of incidence and the composition of the material can also influence the wavelength.

4. How does the wavelength of ejected electrons relate to the photoelectric effect?

In the photoelectric effect, the energy of the incident photons must be equal to or greater than the work function of the material in order to eject electrons. The wavelength of the ejected electrons is then determined by the energy of the photons and the properties of the material, as discussed in the de Broglie relation.

5. Why is the wavelength of ejected electrons important in understanding the behavior of matter?

The wavelength of ejected electrons is important in understanding the nature of matter and its interactions with light. It provides insight into the quantum mechanical properties of electrons and how they behave in different materials. Additionally, studying the wavelength of ejected electrons can help us better understand phenomena such as the photoelectric effect and the dual nature of light as both a wave and a particle.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
17K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
8K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
1
Views
978
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
5K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
9
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
13K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Back
Top