What is the work function φ?
GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer
The work function φ (phi) represents the binding energy of electrons at a material's surface. Different materials have different work functions:
- Sodium: ~2.3 eV
- Aluminum: ~4.2 eV
- Gold: ~5.1 eV
In the photoelectric effect: hν = φ + KE_max, where hν is photon energy and KE_max is maximum kinetic energy of emitted electrons.
Suggested Q&A
General · Class 12- GeneralClass 12Electric Field at Centre of Ring with Non-Uniform Charge Distribution. Four quadrants carry linear charge densities: +2λ, −2λ, +λ, −λ. Find electric field at centre.
- GeneralClass 12P°(hexane) = 408 Torr, P°(heptane) = 141 Torr. x(hexane) = 0.300. Find Y₆ and Y₇.
- GeneralClass 122N₂O₅(g) → 4NO₂(g) + O₂(g). Initial P = 50 mmHg; P at 30 min = 87.5 mmHg. Find P at 60 min.
- GeneralClass 12What is the difference between psychosis and neurosis?
- GeneralClass 12What is the difference between prism and a pyramid?
- GeneralClass 12What is the difference between phrase and clause?