Question:

Two light waves of wavelengths 600 nm and 200 nm are incident on a metal surface. The maximum velocity of photoelectrons produced due to one wavelength is \(\frac{1}{3}\) of the maximum velocity of the photoelectrons produced due to the other wavelength. Find the work function of the metal.

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For photoelectric effect with velocity ratio: relate \(v_{\text{max}}^2 \propto K_{\text{max}} = h\nu - \phi\) to solve for \(\phi\).
Updated On: Jul 18, 2026
  • \(\frac{hc}{8} \times 10^7 \, \text{J}\)
  • \(\frac{8}{hc} \times 10^7 \, \text{J}\)
  • \(\frac{hc}{4} \times 10^7 \, \text{J}\)
  • \(\frac{hc}{9} \times 10^7 \, \text{J}\)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Recall photoelectric effect equation.
\[ K_{\text{max}} = \frac{1}{2} m v_{\text{max}}^2 = h \nu - \phi \]
where \(\phi\) is work function, \(h\) Planck's constant, \(\nu = c/\lambda\).

Step 2: Express ratio of maximum velocities.
Given: \(v_1 = \frac{1}{3} v_2 \implies K_1 = \frac{1}{9} K_2\)

Step 3: Write kinetic energies in terms of wavelengths.
\[ K_1 = \frac{hc}{\lambda_1} - \phi, \quad K_2 = \frac{hc}{\lambda_2} - \phi \]

Step 4: Apply ratio.
\[ \frac{K_1}{K_2} = \frac{1}{9} \implies \frac{\frac{hc}{\lambda_1} - \phi}{\frac{hc}{\lambda_2} - \phi} = \frac{1}{9} \]

Step 5: Substitute \(\lambda_1 = 600 \, \text{nm}, \lambda_2 = 200 \, \text{nm}\).
\[ \frac{\frac{hc}{600} - \phi}{\frac{hc}{200} - \phi} = \frac{1}{9} \implies \phi = \frac{hc}{8} \]

Step 6: Final conclusion.
Hence, the work function of the metal is:
\[ \boxed{\frac{hc}{8} \times 10^7 \, \text{J}} \]
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