Question
Every metal has a definite work function. Why do all photoelectrons not come out with the same energy if incident radiation is monochromatic? Why is there an energy distribution of photoelectrons?
Solution
Work function indicates the minimum energy required for the electron in the highest level of the conduction band to get out of the metal.
Not all electrons in the metal belong to this level but, rather they occupy a continuous band of levels. Consequently, for the same incident radiation, electrons knocked off from different levels come out with different energies.
Not all electrons in the metal belong to this level but, rather they occupy a continuous band of levels. Consequently, for the same incident radiation, electrons knocked off from different levels come out with different energies.
