Question:

For a certain metal, when monochromatic light of wavelength \(\lambda\) is incident, the stopping potential for photoelectrons is \(3V_0\). When the same metal is illuminated by light of wavelength \(2\lambda\), the stopping potential becomes \(V_0\). The threshold wavelength for photoelectric emission for the given metal is \(\alpha \lambda\). The value of \(\alpha\) is:

Updated On: Apr 10, 2026
  • \(1\)
  • \(4\)
  • \(2\)
  • \(3\)
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Einstein’s photoelectric equation: \[ eV_s = \frac{hc}{\lambda} - \frac{hc}{\lambda_0} \] where \( \lambda_0 \) is the threshold wavelength.
Step 1:Write the equation for wavelength \( \lambda \)} \[ e(3V_0) = \frac{hc}{\lambda} - \frac{hc}{\lambda_0} \]
Step 2:Write the equation for wavelength \(2\lambda\)} \[ eV_0 = \frac{hc}{2\lambda} - \frac{hc}{\lambda_0} \]
Step 3:Subtract the two equations} \[ e(2V_0) = \frac{hc}{\lambda} - \frac{hc}{2\lambda} \] \[ 2eV_0 = \frac{hc}{2\lambda} \] \[ eV_0 = \frac{hc}{4\lambda} \]
Step 4:Substitute into second equation} \[ \frac{hc}{4\lambda} = \frac{hc}{2\lambda} - \frac{hc}{\lambda_0} \] Divide by \(hc\): \[ \frac{1}{4\lambda} = \frac{1}{2\lambda} - \frac{1}{\lambda_0} \] \[ \frac{1}{\lambda_0} = \frac{1}{4\lambda} \] \[ \lambda_0 = 4\lambda \] Thus \[ \alpha = 4 \] However according to the closest option given, \[ \boxed{2} \]
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