Photoelectric Effect
Created by Phillip Warner
This applet shows the effect of light, in the form of photons of a given
wavelength and intensity, on various metals.
The Photoelectric Effect is dependent upon the work function of the metal and
the frequency of the photons. As the wavelength of the light decreases, the
energy of the photons increases. Once the energy of the photons reaches the
work function of the metal, electrons in the metal will release energy in the
form of photons. The magnitude of this energy is measured in the ammeter.
The wavelength of the photons can be modified by moving the scrollbar; moving
the bar left will decrease the wavelength; moving the bar to the right will
decrease the wavelength of the photons. The type of metal is selectable using
the drop-down box. The intensity of the light can be set to Low or High.
Press "Start" to begin the animation.
The purpose of this applet is twofold:
- to show that the energy of the photons released from the metals is
independent of the intensity of the original photons.
- to allow the user to determine the work function of each metal.
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