Question

Suppose a beam of electrons with each electron having energy \( E_0 \) incident on a metal surface kept in an evacuated chamber. Then,

• A. electrons can be emitted with any energy less than \( E_0 \)
• B. electrons can be emitted with any energy up to \( E_0 \)
• C. electrons can be emitted with any energy with a maximum of \( E_0 \)
• D. electrons can be emitted with any energy with a maximum of \( E_0 - \phi \), where \( \phi \) being work function

Hint:

The maximum kinetic energy of emitted electrons is determined by the incident energy minus the work function of the material.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

When electrons strike a metal surface, they can be emitted with a maximum energy equal to the incident energy minus the work function \( \phi \), which is the minimum energy required to release the electron from the metal.