Photoelectric Effect (Cesium)

Cs + hν → Cs+ + e−

Aperçu

Photons with energy exceeding the work function of cesium (2.1 eV, wavelength < 590 nm) eject electrons from the metal surface. Cesium has the lowest work function of any stable element, making it the most photosensitive metal. Einstein's explanation of this effect in 1905 established the quantum nature of light and won him the Nobel Prize.

Participants

Rôle Substance Coefficient État
Réactif Cesium Cs 1 (s)

Exemple du quotidien

Automatic doors use photoelectric sensors that detect when a person blocks a light beam, triggering the door to open.

Importance industrielle

The photoelectric effect is fundamental to photomultiplier tubes, solar cells, photodetectors, and electron spectroscopy (XPS).

Propriétés

Type
Photochemical
Réversible
Non
Énergie
Endothermique

Réactions associées

Cis-Trans Isomerization of Retinal Silver Chloride Photodecomposition Luminol Chemiluminescence Firefly Bioluminescence (Luciferin Oxidation) Photolysis of Water (Vacuum UV) Photochemical Smog Formation (NO₂ Photolysis) Photodegradation of Methylene Blue by TiO₂ Photodissociation of Chlorine Gas Silver Bromide Photodecomposition Chlorophyll Fluorescence

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Photoelectric Effect (Cesium)?
The balanced equation is: Cs + hν → Cs⁺ + e⁻.
What type of reaction is Photoelectric Effect (Cesium)?
Photoelectric Effect (Cesium) is a photochemical reaction.
Is Photoelectric Effect (Cesium) exothermic or endothermic?
Photoelectric Effect (Cesium) is endothermic (absorbs energy).