Question

In a photoelectric experiment, the potential difference V that must be maintained between the illuminated surface and the collector so as just to prevent any electron from reaching the collector is determined for different frequencies f of the incident illumination.

Options:
a. The stopping potential is directly proportional to the frequency.
b. The stopping potential is inversely proportional to the frequency.
c. The stopping potential is directly proportional to the square of the frequency.
d. The stopping potential is inversely proportional to the square of the frequency.

Answer 1

In the context of the photoelectric effect, the relationship between the stopping potential and the frequency of incident light is directly proportional, not inverse. The correct relationship is given by Einstein's photoelectric equation, which indicates that as frequency increases, the stopping potential must also increase.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to the photoelectric effect, which is an important concept in Physics. According to Einstein's photoelectric equation, the stopping potential (V) is directly proportional to the frequency (f) of the incident light, and not inversely. This can be described by the equation hf = eV + φ, where h is Planck's constant, e is the charge of the electron, and φ is the work function of the material. This equation tells us that as the frequency of the incident light increases, the stopping potential must also increase to prevent electrons from reaching the collector.

In other words, the stopping potential increases with an increase in frequency and is not inversely proportional to the frequency or its square. Therefore, neither option b nor option d is correct in describing the relationship between the stopping potential and the frequency in a photoelectric experiment.