Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
photoelectron
noun
/ˌfoʊtoʊɪˈlɛktrɒn/
Definition
A photoelectron is an electron that is emitted from a material as a result of the absorption of a photon of light.
Examples
- The photoelectron emission experiment demonstrated how light can liberate electrons from metals.
- In a photoelectric cell, photoelectrons are utilized to generate electricity from light energy.
Meaning
Photoelectrons are generated when photons strike a surface and give enough energy to electrons to escape from that surface.
Synonyms
- Light electron
- Photoemitted electron
