Question 72 of 949
Light of energy 5eV falls on a metal of work function 3eV and electrons are liberated. The stopping potential is
- A. 1.7V
- B. 2.0V
- C. 8.0V
- D. 15.0V
Correct Answer:
B
Explanation
To solve the problem, we need to understand the photoelectric effect, which describes how light can liberate electrons from a metal surface. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the solution:
### Step 1: Understand the Given Information
- **Energy of the incident light (E)**: 5 eV
- **Work function of the metal (Φ)**: 3 eV
### Step 2: Calculate the Kinetic Energy of the Liberated Electrons
When light of energy \( E \) strikes a metal surface, it can liberate electrons if the energy is greater than the work function \( Φ \). The excess energy is converted into the kinetic energy (KE) of the emitted electrons.
The kinetic energy of the emitted electrons can be calculated using the formula:
\[
KE = E - Φ
\]
Substituting the given values:
\[
KE = 5 \, \text{eV} - 3 \, \text{eV} = 2 \, \text{eV}
\]
### Step 3: Relate Kinetic Energy to Stopping Potential
The stopping potential \( V_s \) is the potential difference needed to stop the most energetic photoelectrons. The relationship between the kinetic energy of the electrons and the stopping potential is given by:
\[
KE = eV_s
\]
where \( e \) is the charge of an electron (approximately 1.6 x \( 10^{-19} \) coulombs). Since we are working in electron volts (eV), we can directly equate the kinetic energy in eV to the stopping potential in volts:
\[
V_s = KE
\]
Thus, substituting the kinetic energy we calculated:
\[
V_s = 2 \, \text{V}
\]
### Conclusion: Identify the Correct Option
The stopping potential is therefore 2 V. Looking at the options provided:
- A. 1.7V
- B. 2.0V
- C. 8.0V
- D. 15.0V
The correct answer is **B. 2.0V**.
### Step 4: Explanation of Incorrect Options
- **Option A (1.7V)**: This value is less than the calculated stopping potential. It does not account for the full kinetic energy of the emitted electrons.
- **Option C (8.0V)**: This value is much higher than the calculated stopping potential. It suggests a misunderstanding of the energy balance in the photoelectric effect.
- **Option D (15.0V)**: This value is also significantly higher and does not relate to the energies given in the problem. It implies an incorrect interpretation of the work function and incident light energy.
### Summary of Key Points
- The energy of the incident light must exceed the work function to liberate electrons.
- The excess energy becomes the kinetic energy of the emitted electrons.
- The stopping potential is equal to the kinetic energy of the electrons in volts.
- The correct stopping potential in this case is 2.0V, corresponding to option B.
### Revision Summary
- Understand the photoelectric effect and the role of work function.
- Calculate kinetic energy using \( KE = E - Φ \).
- Relate kinetic energy to stopping potential using \( KE = eV_s \).
- The stopping potential in this case is 2.0V, confirming option B as correct.