Calculator
Tip: Typical metals have Φ around 2–5 eV.
Example data table
| Work function (eV) | Threshold frequency f0 (Hz) | Threshold wavelength λ0 (nm) | Incident λ (nm) | Emission? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.00 | 4.84×1014 | 619 | 700 | No |
| 2.30 | 5.56×1014 | 539 | 450 | Yes |
| 4.50 | 1.09×1015 | 275 | 300 | No |
Values are rounded for illustration.
Formula used
- Work function relation: Φ = h f0
- Threshold frequency: f0 = Φ / h
- Threshold wavelength: λ0 = c / f0
- Photon energy: E = h f
- Max kinetic energy: Kmax = max(0, h f − Φ)
- Stopping potential: Vs = Kmax / e
Constants used: h = 6.62607015×10−34 J·s, c = 299792458 m/s, e = 1.602176634×10−19 C.
How to use this calculator
- Select a known quantity: either work function Φ or threshold wavelength λ0.
- Enter the value with correct units, then choose your output units.
- Optional: add an incident frequency or wavelength to check emission.
- Press Calculate to show results below the header.
- Use the CSV or PDF buttons to export the latest computed set.
Use this tool to learn light–matter energy basics today.