How Do You Determine the Work Function of a Photoemissive Material?

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the work function of a photoemissive material. The data measured and calculated includes the frequency of light, the energy of the light, and the stopping potential. The formula for calculating the work function is also mentioned. It is noted that the work function has no meaning for the cathode and that the stopping potential must be greater than the kinetic energy of the emitted photoelectrons from the anode. The relationship between the kinetic energy of the photoelectrons and the work function of the anode is also mentioned.
  • #1
Anton999
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Homework Statement


I need to calculate the work function of a photoemissive material. Light is shone through a photocathode (cathode) and the stopping potential V, is measured between anode (stainless steel) and cathode using a picoammeter)
Following are the data measured/calculated
ν = 1.402 e15 Hz (deuterium lamp, at λ= 214nm)
hν = 5.798 eV
stopping potential, V = 2.44 v
ϕ (anode) = 4.4 eV (stainless steel)

Homework Equations


E = hc/λ = hν
hν = ϕ + Ek

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
How do I calculate the ϕ (cathode)?
Is the formula ϕ (cathode) = hν + V - ϕ (anode) correct?

stopping potential V is measured in volts, everything else in the above equation is in eV. Any solutions?
 
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  • #2
The work function (phi) has no meaning for the cathode.
The cathode collects photoelectrons until the stopping potential is
greater than the kinetic energy of the photoelectrons emitted from the anode.
Also, what is the kinetic energy of the emitted photoelectrons as it
relates to the work function of the anode?
 

Related to How Do You Determine the Work Function of a Photoemissive Material?

1. What is the work function of a material?

The work function of a material is the minimum amount of energy needed to remove an electron from the surface of that material. It is typically measured in electron volts (eV) or joules (J).

2. How is the work function calculated?

The work function can be calculated using the following equation:
Work Function = (Energy of incident photon) - (Kinetic Energy of emitted electron)

3. What factors can affect the work function of a material?

The work function of a material can be affected by factors such as the material's composition, surface structure, and temperature. It can also be influenced by the presence of impurities or external electric fields.

4. Why is it important to calculate the work function of a material?

The work function is an important property of a material as it determines its ability to emit electrons and participate in electronic processes. It is also used in the design and optimization of electronic devices and in understanding the behavior of materials in various environments.

5. How are work function calculations used in research?

Work function calculations are used in a variety of research fields, such as materials science, surface chemistry, and solid state physics. They are used to study the electronic and surface properties of materials, and to design and develop new materials for various applications. Work function calculations are also important in understanding the behavior of materials in different environments, such as in corrosion or catalysis processes.

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