Photoelectric Effect Simulator
Shine light on a metal and see when electrons are emitted, and how fast.
Photon energy0 eV
Work function0 eV
Max electron energy–
Threshold wavelength0 nm
Result–
What you can learn
- Light comes in photons with energy E = hf.
- Electrons are ejected only if the photon energy exceeds the metal's work function.
- Brighter light means more electrons, not faster ones. Higher frequency means faster ones.
Frequently asked questions
Why does dim blue light emit electrons but bright red light doesn't?
Each photon gives its energy to a single electron. Red photons don't carry enough energy to exceed the work function, no matter how many there are.
What is the work function?
The minimum energy needed to remove an electron from the surface of a metal. It differs for each metal.