Exam-style question
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What happens when light of a frequency above the threshold frequency strikes a metal surface?.
- A.Electrons are emitted immediately from the surface
- B.No electrons are emitted regardless of intensity
- C.Electrons are emitted only after a delay
- D.The metal surface heats up without electron emission
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Electrons are emitted immediately from the surface
Explanation
Why this works
The cause is that light of a frequency above the threshold frequency has sufficient energy to overcome the work function of the metal. This energy mechanism allows electrons to be emitted immediately from the surface, resulting in the consequence of observable photoelectric emission.
Common mistake
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