Light of a given wavelength is used to illuminate the surface of a metal,however,no photoelectrons are emitted.In order to cause electrons to be ejected from the surface of this metal you should
A)use light of a longer wavelength.
B)use light of a shorter wavelength.
C)use light of the same wavelength but increase its intensity.
D)use light of the same wavelength but decrease its intensity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The photoelectric effect states that the energy of the incident photon must be greater than the work function of the metal for photoelectrons to be emitted. The work function is the minimum energy required to remove an electron from the metal surface. Therefore, by using light of a shorter wavelength, its energy increases, and there is a higher probability that the photons will have enough energy to overcome the work function and eject electrons from the metal surface.

Light of a Given Wavelength Is Used to Illuminate the Surface