Question:

In an experiment on photoelectric effect, a student plots stopping potential \(V_0\) against reciprocal of the wavelength \(\lambda\) of the incident light for two different metals A and B. These are shown in the figure.

Looking at the graphs, you can most appropriately say that:

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Write \(V_0\) as a linear function of \(1/\lambda\) and compare slopes; the slope should be universal.
Updated On: Nov 4, 2026
  • Work function of metal B is greater than that of metal A
  • For light of certain wavelength falling on both metal, maximum kinetic energy of electrons emitted from A will be greater than those emitted from B.
  • Work function of metal A is greater than that of metal B
  • Students data is not correct
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Einstein's equation: \(eV_0 = \dfrac{hc}{\lambda} - \phi\), so \(V_0 = \dfrac{hc}{e}\cdot\dfrac{1}{\lambda} - \dfrac{\phi}{e}\).
The graph of \(V_0\) vs \(1/\lambda\) is a straight line whose slope is \(hc/e\), a universal constant independent of the metal. Only the intercept (threshold \(1/\lambda_0 = \phi/hc\)) differs between metals.
So the lines for A and B must be parallel. In the figure the two lines have different slopes (A is steeper than B), which is impossible.
Hence the student's data cannot be correct.
Answer: (4) Students data is not correct
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