Question:

The work function of Mg, Cu, Ag, Li are \(3.7, 4.8, 4.3, 2.5\,\text{eV}\) respectively. A wavelength of \(300\,\text{nm}\) light is shined on them. The metals which undergo photoelectric effect are

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Use the shortcut formula: \[ E(\text{eV}) = \frac{1240}{\lambda(\text{nm})} \] If photon energy exceeds work function, photoelectric emission occurs immediately.
Updated On: Jun 17, 2026
  • Mg, Cu
  • Cu, Ag
  • Ag, Li
  • Mg, Li
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: The photoelectric effect occurs only when the energy of the incident photon is greater than or equal to the work function of the metal. The photon energy is calculated using: \[ E = \frac{hc}{\lambda} \] A useful shortcut formula is: \[ E(\text{eV}) = \frac{1240}{\lambda(\text{nm})} \] If: \[ E \geq \phi \] then photoelectric emission occurs. Otherwise, electrons are not emitted.

Step 1: Calculate energy of incident radiation. Given: \[ \lambda = 300\,\text{nm} \] Using: \[ E = \frac{1240}{300} \] \[ E = 4.13\,\text{eV} \] Thus, incident photon energy is: \[ E = 4.13\,\text{eV} \]

Step 2: Compare photon energy with work function of each metal. For Mg: \[ \phi = 3.7\,\text{eV} \] Since, \[ 4.13 > 3.7 \] Therefore, Mg shows photoelectric effect. For Cu: \[ \phi = 4.8\,\text{eV} \] Since, \[ 4.13 < 4.8 \] Therefore, Cu does not show photoelectric effect. For Ag: \[ \phi = 4.3\,\text{eV} \] Since, \[ 4.13 < 4.3 \] Therefore, Ag does not show photoelectric effect. For Li: \[ \phi = 2.5\,\text{eV} \] Since, \[ 4.13 > 2.5 \] Therefore, Li shows photoelectric effect.

Step 3: Identify the correct metals. The metals which undergo photoelectric effect are: \[ \boxed{\text{Mg and Li}} \] Hence, the correct option is: \[ \boxed{(D)} \]
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