Question:

Radiations of two photons having energy three and nine times the work function of a metal are incident on the metal surface successively. The ratio of maximum velocities of photoelectrons emitted in two cases are:

Show Hint

In photoelectric effect, velocity depends on square root of kinetic energy, not directly on energy.
Updated On: Jun 20, 2026
  • \(1:3\)
  • \(1:\sqrt{3}\)
  • \(1:4\)
  • \(1:2\)
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Use Einstein’s photoelectric equation.
Maximum kinetic energy of emitted electron: \[ K_{\max} = E - \phi \]

Step 2: First case (energy = 3φ).

\[ K_1 = 3\phi - \phi = 2\phi \] So, \[ \frac{1}{2}mv_1^2 = 2\phi \Rightarrow v_1^2 \propto 2\phi \]

Step 3: Second case (energy = 9φ).

\[ K_2 = 9\phi - \phi = 8\phi \] So, \[ \frac{1}{2}mv_2^2 = 8\phi \Rightarrow v_2^2 \propto 8\phi \]

Step 4: Take ratio of velocities.

\[ \frac{v_1}{v_2} = \sqrt{\frac{2\phi}{8\phi}} = \sqrt{\frac{1}{4}} = \frac{1}{2} \]

Step 5: Final conclusion.

\[ \boxed{1:2} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0