Question

A photon of energy $h\upsilon$ is absorbed by a free electron of a metal having work function w < h$\upsilon$. Then :

• A. The electron is sure to come out
• B. The electron is sure to come out with a kinetic energy $(h\upsilon\text{- w})$
• C. Either the electron does not come out or it comes with a kinetic energy $(h\upsilon\text{- w})$
• D. It may come out with a kinetic energy less than $(h\upsilon\text{- w})$

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

It may come out with a kinetic energy less than $(h\upsilon\text{- w})$

Answer 2

Photoelectric effect is a random phenomena. So, electron It may come out with a kinetic energy less than (h$\upsilon$ – w) as some energy is lost while escaping out.