Question

Electron kinetic energies are often measured in units of electron-volts (1 eV 1.6 x 10-19 J), which is the kinetic energy of an electron that is accelerated through a 1 volt potential. When an aluminum plate is irradiated with UV light of 253.5 nm wavelength the ejected electrons are observed to have an average kinetic energy of about 0.8 eV. Use these results to determine the electron binding energy (or "work function") o of aluminum (in eV units).

Answer 1

4.1 eV

Step-by-step explanation:

Kinetic energy, K = 0.8 eV = 0.8 x 1.6 x 10^-19 J = 1.28 x 10^-19 J

wavelength, λ = 253.5 nm = 253.5 x 10^-9 m

According to the Einstein energy equation

`E = W_(o)+K`

Where, E be the energy incident, Wo is the work function and K is the kinetic energy.

h = 6.634 x 10^-34 Js

c = 3 x 10^8 m/s

`E=(hc)/(\lambda )=(6.634 * 10^(-34) * 3 * 10^(8))/(253.5* 10^(-9))=7.85 * 10^(-19) J`

So, the work function, Wo = E - K

Wo = 7.85 x 10^-19 - 1.28 x 10^-19

Wo = 6.57 x 10^-19 J

Wo = 4.1 eV

Thus, the work function of the metal is 4.1 eV.