Photoelectric Effect

Definition

The photoelectric effect is the phenomenon where electrons are emitted from a material when it absorbs photons (light particles) with sufficient energy. It demonstrates that light behaves as both a particle and a wave.

Related terms

Threshold Frequency: The minimum frequency of light required to cause the photoelectric effect in a particular material.

Work Function: The minimum amount of energy needed to remove an electron from the surface of a material.

Photons:

Discrete packets or quanta of electromagnetic radiation (such as light), which carry energy proportional to their frequency.