In theThe [[photoelectric effect]]the work function of a metal is the minimum energy required to cause the emission of an electron from ita particular metal's surface. If a [[photon]]incidentonis incident on the metal and has an energy greater than the work function then electrons in the metal can escape from the surface and [[photoelectric emission]]occurs. Any excess energy is given to the electron as kinetic energy.
Photoelectric work function:
Line 22:
φ=hf<sub>0<sub>,
where h is [[Planck's constant]] and f<sub>0<sub> is the minimum (threshold) frequency of the photon required for photoelectric emission.
