What occurs during the photoelectric effect?

What occurs during the photoelectric effect?

• A. Light creates a virtual image
• B. Electrons are emitted from a material
• C. Light refracts through a medium
• D. Wavelengths are absorbed

Answer: (B)

During the photoelectric effect, electrons are emitted from a material when light of sufficient energy strikes its surface. This phenomenon occurs because photons, the particles of light, can transfer their energy to the electrons in the material. If the energy of the incoming photons exceeds the work function (the minimum energy required to remove an electron) of the material, the electrons will be ejected from the surface. This effect demonstrates the particle nature of light and has significant implications in quantum physics, leading to the understanding of light-matter interactions. It clearly shows how light can impart energy to electrons, resulting in their emission. Consequently, this phenomenon underpins many practical applications, such as in solar cells and photodetectors, where the conversion of light into electrical energy is essential.

During the photoelectric effect, electrons are emitted from a material when light of sufficient energy strikes its surface. This phenomenon occurs because photons, the particles of light, can transfer their energy to the electrons in the material. If the energy of the incoming photons exceeds the work function (the minimum energy required to remove an electron) of the material, the electrons will be ejected from the surface.

This effect demonstrates the particle nature of light and has significant implications in quantum physics, leading to the understanding of light-matter interactions. It clearly shows how light can impart energy to electrons, resulting in their emission. Consequently, this phenomenon underpins many practical applications, such as in solar cells and photodetectors, where the conversion of light into electrical energy is essential.