Photoelectric Effect and Line Spectra

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to the photoelectric effect and line spectra studied in physics.

Photoelectric Effect

The phenomenon where electrons are emitted from a metal surface when it is exposed to light of sufficient frequency.

Threshold Frequency

The minimum frequency of light required to produce the photoelectric effect.

Work Function (Φ)

The minimum amount of energy needed for an electron to escape the surface of a metal.

Photon

A particle of light that carries energy proportional to its frequency.

Kinetic Energy (k.e.)

The energy that an electron possesses due to its motion after being emitted from the metal surface.

Einstein's Photoelectric Equation

An equation that relates the energy of a photon to the work function and maximum kinetic energy of emitted electrons: hf = Φ + k.e.max.

Electromagnetic Radiation

A form of energy that propagates through space and includes visible light, ultraviolet light, and more.

Emission Line Spectrum

A spectrum that shows bright lines at specific wavelengths, characteristic of the elements present in a hot gas.

Absorption Line Spectrum

A spectrum that shows dark lines at specific wavelengths in the continuous spectrum of white light passed through a cool gas.

Dispersion

The process of splitting light into its component wavelengths or colors.

Energy Quantization

The concept that energy levels of electrons in atoms are discrete and not continuous.