basic

Photoelectric Work Function Calculator

Maximum photoelectron KE = hf − φ.

Compute the maximum kinetic energy of photoelectrons emitted from a metal surface using the photoelectric equation KE_max = h·ν − φ (or equivalently KE_max = hc/λ − φ). Reports the threshold wavelength λ₀ = hc/φ.

Dr. Helena Ortiz By Dr. Helena Ortiz
Published Last reviewed 1 min read

Inputs

nm
eV

Results

Enter values and click Calculate to see results.
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How to use this calculator

  1. Fill in the inputs above using the units you already have.
  2. Values update automatically as you type — no submit button needed.
  3. Hover any result row for the underlying formula and intermediate values.

Formula

KE_max = hc / λ − φ; λ₀ = hc / φ.

In depth

Compute the maximum kinetic energy of photoelectrons emitted from a metal surface using the photoelectric equation KE_max = h·ν − φ (or equivalently KE_max = hc/λ − φ). Reports the threshold wavelength λ₀ = hc/φ.