Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

CBSE NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Physics Chapter 11

Back of Chapter Questions

1. Find the
(a) maximum frequency, and
(b) minimum wavelength of X-rays produced by 30 kV electrons.
Solution:
Given,
The potential of the electron is𝑉𝑉 = 30kV = 3 × 104 𝑉𝑉.
The potential energy in electron volts is 𝐸𝐸 = 3 × 104 eV.
(a) Let the maximum frequency of X-rays produced be 𝜈𝜈.
The equation for frequency is,
𝐸𝐸 = ℎ𝜈𝜈
𝐸𝐸
⇒ 𝜈𝜈 =
ℎ
Substituting the values,
1.6 × 10−19 × 3 × 104
𝜈𝜈 = = 7.24 × 1018 Hz
6.626 × 10−34
Thus, the maximum frequency of X-rays produced is 7.24 × 1018 Hz.
(b) The equation for minimum wavelength of X-rays produced is
𝑐𝑐
𝜆𝜆 =
𝜈𝜈
Substituting the values,
3 × 108
𝜆𝜆 =
7.24 × 1018
= 4.14 × 10−11 m
= 0.0414 nm
Thus, the minimum wavelength of X-rays produced is 0.0414 nm.
2. The work function of caesium metal is 2.14 eV. When light of frequency 6 × 1014
Hz is incident on the metal surface, photoemission of electrons occurs. What is the
(a) maximum kinetic energy of the emitted electrons,

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

(b) Stopping potential, and

(c) maximum speed of the emitted photoelectrons?
Solution:
Given
Here, the work function of caesium metal is 2.14 eV.
The frequency of light is 6 ×1014 Hz.
(a) For the emitted electrons, the maximum kinetic energy is given by the
equation,
𝐾𝐾 = ℎ𝜈𝜈 − 𝜙𝜙0
Substituting the values,
(6.626 × 10−34 )(6 × 1014 )
𝐾𝐾 = − 2.14
1.6 × 10−19
= 0.345 eV
Thus, the maximum kinetic energy of the emitted electrons is 0.345 eV.
(b) The stopping potential of the emitted electron is found from the relation,
𝐾𝐾 = 𝑒𝑒𝑉𝑉0
𝐾𝐾
⇒ 𝑉𝑉0 =
𝑒𝑒
Substituting the values,
0.345 × 1.6 × 10−19
𝑉𝑉0 = = 0.345 V
1.6 × 10−19
Thus, the stopping potential of the emitted electron is 0.345 V.
(c) The maximum speed of the photoelectrons is found from the relation,
2𝐾𝐾
𝑣𝑣2 =
𝑚𝑚

2𝐾𝐾
⇒ 𝑣𝑣 = �
𝑚𝑚

Substituting the values,

2 × 0.345 × 1.6 × 10−19

𝑣𝑣 = �
9.1 × 10−31

= √0.1104 × 1012

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

= 3.323 × 105 m/s

= 332.3 km/s
Thus, the maximum speed of the emitted photoelectrons is 332.3 km/s.
3. The photoelectric cut-off voltage in a certain experiment is 1.5 V. What is the
maximum kinetic energy of photoelectrons emitted?
Solution:
Given
The cutoff voltage is 𝑉𝑉0 = 1.5 V.
The maximum kinetic energy of the electrons is given by the equation,
𝐾𝐾 = 𝑒𝑒𝑉𝑉0
Substituting the values,
𝐾𝐾 = 1.6 × 10−19 × 1.5 = 2.4 × 10−19 J
Thus, the maximum kinetic energy of the emitted electrons is 2.4 × 10−19 J.
4. Monochromatic light of wavelength 632.8 nm is produced by a helium-neon laser.
The power emitted is 9.42 mW.
(a) Find the energy and momentum of each photon in the light beam,
(b) How many photons per second, on the average, arrive at a target irradiated
by this beam? (Assume the beam to have uniform cross-section which is
less than the target area), and
(c) How fast does a hydrogen atom have to travel to have the same momentum
as that of the photon?
Solution:
Given
The wavelength of the monochromatic light is 𝜆𝜆 = 632.8 nm = 632.8 × 10−9 m.
The emitted power of the laser is 𝑃𝑃 = 9.42 mW = 9.42 × 10−3 W.
The mass of the hydrogen atom is, 𝑚𝑚 = 1.66 × 10−27 kg.
(a) The energy of each photon in the light beam is
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝐸𝐸 =
𝜆𝜆
6.626 × 10−34 × 3 × 108
=
632.8 × 10−9
= 3.141 × 10−19 J

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

The momentum of each photon in the light beam is

ℎ 6.626 × 10−34
𝑝𝑝 = =
𝜆𝜆 632.8 × 10−9
= 1.047 × 10−27 kg m/s
Thus, the energy of each photon in the light beam is 3.141 × 10−19 J and
the momentum of each photon in the light beam is 1.047 × 10−27 kg m/s.
(b) Let the number of photons arriving per second at the target be n.
The number can be found from the equation for power.
𝑃𝑃 = 𝑛𝑛𝑛𝑛
𝑃𝑃 9.42 × 10−3
⇒ 𝑛𝑛 = = = 3 × 1016 photons/s
𝐸𝐸 3.141 × 10−19
Thus, the number of photons arriving per second at the target is
3 × 1016 photons/s.
(c) Momentum of photon and hydrogen atom is the same.
𝑝𝑝 = 1.047 × 10−27 kgm/s
The speed of the hydrogen atom is,
𝑝𝑝 1.047 × 10−27
𝑣𝑣 = = = 0.621 m/s
𝑚𝑚 1.66 × 10−27
Thus, the speed of the hydrogen atom is 0.621 m/s.
5. The energy flux of sunlight reaching the surface of the earth is 1.388 × 103 W/
m2 . How many photons (nearly) per square metre are incident on the Earth per
second? Assume that the photons in the sunlight have an average wavelength of
550 nm.
Solution:
Given
The energy flux of sunlight is Φ = 1.388 × 103 W/m2
Average wavelength of the photon is 𝜆𝜆 = 550 nm = 550 × 10−9 m.
The power of sunlight per square metre is 𝑃𝑃 = 1.388 × 103 W
Let the number of photons incident per second on earth be 𝑛𝑛.
𝑃𝑃 = 𝑛𝑛𝑛𝑛
𝑃𝑃 𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃
⇒ 𝑛𝑛 = =
𝐸𝐸 ℎ𝑐𝑐
Substituting the values,

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

(1.388 × 103 )(550 × 10−9 )

𝑛𝑛 =
(6.626 × 10−34 )(3 × 108 )
⇒ 𝑛𝑛 = 3.84 × 1021 photons/m2 /s
Thus, the number of photons (nearly) per square metre are incident on the earth per
second is 3.84 × 1021 photons.
6. In an experiment on photoelectric effect, the slope of the cut-off voltage versus
frequency of incident light is found to be 4.12 × 10–15 V s. Calculate the value of
Planck’s constant.
Solution:
The slope of cut-off voltage versus frequency of incident light is,
𝑉𝑉
= 4.12 × 10−15 V s
𝜈𝜈
The relationship between the cut-off voltage and frequency is given by,
ℎ𝜈𝜈 = 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
Here,
𝑒𝑒 is charge of electron
ℎ is the Plank’s constant
Therefore, the Plank’s constant is,
𝑉𝑉
ℎ = 𝑒𝑒
𝜈𝜈
= 1.6 × 10−19 C × 4.12 × 10−15
= 6.59 × 10−34 J s
Therefore, the value of Plank’s constant is 6.59 × 10−34 J s.
7. A 100W sodium lamp radiates energy uniformly in all directions. The lamp is
located at the centre of a large sphere that absorbs all the sodium light which is
incident on it. The wavelength of the sodium light is 589 nm. (a) What is the energy
per photon associated with the sodium light? (b) At what rate are the photons
delivered to the sphere?
Solution:
The power of the sodium lamp is, 𝑃𝑃 = 100 W
The wavelength of sodium light emitted is,
𝜆𝜆 = 589 nm = 589 × 10−9 m
The Plank’s constant, ℎ = 6.626 × 10−34 J s

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

The speed of light, 𝑐𝑐 = 3 × 108 m/s

(a) The energy per photon for the sodium light is,
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝐸𝐸 =
𝜆𝜆
6.626 × 10−34 Js × 3 × 10−8 m/s
=
589 × 10−9 m
= 3.37 × 10−19 J
1 eV
= (3.37 × 10−19 J) ×
1.6 × 10−19 J
= 2.11 eV
(b) The power is,
𝑃𝑃 = 𝑛𝑛𝑛𝑛
Here, 𝑛𝑛 is the number of photons delivered to the sphere.
Therefore, the number of photons delivered to the sphere is,
𝑃𝑃
𝑛𝑛 =
𝐸𝐸
100 W
=
3.37 × 10−19 J
= 2.96 × 1020 photons/s
Thus, 2.96 × 1020 photons are delivered to the sphere every second.
8. The threshold frequency for a certain metal is 3.3 × 1014 𝐻𝐻𝐻𝐻. If light of frequency
8.2 × 1014 Hz is incident on the metal, predict the cutoff voltage for the
photoelectric emission.
Solution:
The threshold frequency of the metal is, 𝜈𝜈0 = 3.3 × 1014 Hz
The frequency of incident light on metal is, 𝜈𝜈 = 8.2 × 1014 Hz
The charge of electron is, 𝑒𝑒 = 1.6 × 10−19 C
The plank’s constant is, ℎ = 6.626 × 10−34 Js
The cut off energy is,
ℎ(𝜈𝜈 − 𝜈𝜈0 )
𝑉𝑉0 =
𝑒𝑒

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

6.626 × 10−34 Js × (8.2 × 1014 Hz − 3.3 × 1014 Hz)

=
1.6 × 10−19 C
= 2.03 V
Thus, the cut-off voltage for the photoelectric emission is 2.03 V.
9. The work function for a certain metal is 4.2 eV. Will this metal give photoelectric
emission for incident radiation of wavelength 330 nm?
Solution:
Given
The work function is 4.2 eV.
The incident wavelength is 𝜆𝜆 = 330 nm = 330 × 109 m
The energy of the incident photon is
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝐸𝐸 =
𝜆𝜆
6.626 × 10−34 × 3 × 108
=
330 × 109 m
= 6.0 × 10−19 J
6.0 × 10−19
= = 3.76 eV
1.6 × 10−19
Here, as the incident radiation has an energy less than the work function of the
metal. Thus, no photoelectric emission will take place.
10. Light of frequency 7.21 × 1014 Hz is incident on a metal surface. Electrons with a
maximum speed of 6.0 × 105 m/s are ejected from the surface. What is the
threshold frequency for photoemission of electrons?
Solution:
The frequency of the incident light is,
𝑣𝑣 = 488 nm = 488 × 10−9 m
The maximum speed of the electron is, 𝑣𝑣 = 6.0 × 105 m/s
The plank’s constant is, 6.626 × 10−34 Js
The mass of the electron is, 9.1 × 10−31 kg
The kinetic energy is,
1
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣2 = ℎ(𝜈𝜈 − 𝜈𝜈0 )
2

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

Here, 𝜈𝜈0 is the threshold frequency. Therefore, the threshold frequency is,
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣2
𝜈𝜈0 = 𝜈𝜈 −
2ℎ
(9.1 × 10−31 kg)(6.0 × 105 m/s)2
= 7.21 × 1014 Hz −
2(6.626 × 10−34 Js)
= 7.21 × 1014 Hz − 2.47 × 1014 Hz
= 4.74 × 1014 Hz
Thus, 4.74 × 1014 Hz is the threshold frequency of the photoemission.
11. Light of wavelength 488 nm is produced by an argon laser which is used in the
photoelectric effect. When light from this spectral line is incident on the emitter,
the stopping (cut-off) potential of photoelectrons is 0.38 V. Find the work function
of the material from which the emitter is made.
Solution:
The wavelength of the light emitted from Argon laser is,
𝜆𝜆 = 488 nm = 488 × 10−9 m
The stopping potential of the photoelectron is,
𝑉𝑉0 = 0.38 V
0.38 V
=
1.6 × 10−19 V/eV
= 0.608 × 1019 eV
The Plank’s constant is, ℎ = 6.626 × 10−34 Js
The charge of the electron is, 𝑒𝑒 = 1.6 × 10−19 C
The speed of the electron is, 𝑐𝑐 = 3 × 108 m/s
The work function is,
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝜙𝜙 = − 𝑒𝑒𝑉𝑉0
𝜆𝜆
−34
�6.626 × 10 Js × 3 × 108 m/s�
−19 −9
− �1.6 × 10−19 C� �0.608 × 1019 eV�
�1.6 × 10 C� �488 × 10 m�

= 2.16 eV
Thus, 2.16 eV is the work function required for the material.
12. Calculate the
(a) momentum, and

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

(b) de Broglie wavelength of the electrons accelerated through a potential

difference of 56 V.
Solution:
The potential difference is, V = 56 V
The Plank’s constant, ℎ = 6.6 × 10−34 Js
The mass of electron is, 𝑚𝑚 = 9.1 × 10−31 kg
The charge of the electron is, 𝑒𝑒 = 1.6 × 10−19 C
(a) The kinetic energy of each electron at equilibrium is,
1
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣2 = 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
2
Here, 𝑣𝑣 is the velocity.
Therefore, the velocity is,

2𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
𝑣𝑣 = �
𝑚𝑚

2(1.6 × 10−19 C)(56 V)

=�
(9.1 × 10−31 kg)

= 4.44 × 106 m/s

The momentum of each accelerated electron is,
𝑝𝑝 = 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
= (9.1 × 10−31 kg)(4.44 × 106 m/s)
= 4.04 × 10−24 kgm/s
Therefore, 4.04 × 10−24 kgm/s is the momentum of each electron.
(b) The de Broglie wavelength of the electron accelerated through a potential
is,
°
12.27A
𝜆𝜆 =
√𝑉𝑉
Here, 𝑉𝑉 is the potential.
Therefore, de Broglie wavelength of electron is,
°
12.27 A
𝜆𝜆 =
√56 V

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

° 1m
�12.27 A� � �
1010 m
=
√56 V
12.27 × 10−10 m
=
√56 V
= 0.16 × 10−9 m
1 nm
= (0.16 × 10−9 m) � �
10−9 m
= 0.16 nm
Thus, 0.16 nm is the de Broglie wavelength of electron.
13. What is the
(a) momentum,
(b) speed, and
(c) de Broglie wavelength of an electron with kinetic energy of 120 eV.
Solution:
Given
Kinetic energy of the electron is 𝐾𝐾𝐾𝐾 = 120 eV.
(a) The speed of the electron is,
1
𝐾𝐾𝐾𝐾 = 𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2
2

2(𝐾𝐾𝐾𝐾)
𝑣𝑣 = �
𝑚𝑚

2 × 1.6 × 10−19 × 120

=�
9.1 × 10−31

= 6.496 × 106 m/s

The momentum of the electron is,
𝑝𝑝 = 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
= (9.1 × 10−31 kg)(6.496 × 106 m/s)
m
= 5.91 × 10−24 kg
s
Thus, the momentum of the electron is 5.91 × 10−24 kg m/s.

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

(b) The speed of the electron is 6.496 × 106 m/s.

(c) De Broglie wavelength of the electron is
ℎ
𝜆𝜆 =
𝑝𝑝
6.626 × 10−34
=
5.91 × 10−24
= 1.116 × 10−10 m
= 0.112 nm
Thus, the De Broglie wavelength of the electron is 0.112 nm.
14. The wavelength of light from the spectral emission line of sodium is 589 nm. Find
the kinetic energy at which
(a) an electron, and
(b) a neutron would have the same de Broglie wavelength.
Solution:
The wavelength of the sodium light is,
𝜆𝜆 = 589 nm = 589 × 10−9 m
The mass of the electron is, 𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒 = 9.1 × 10−31 kg
The mass of the neutron is, 𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 = 1.66 × 10−27 kg
The Plank’s constant is, ℎ = 6.6 × 10−34 Js
1
(a) The kinetic energy of the electron is, 𝐾𝐾 = 2 𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒 𝑣𝑣 2
ℎ
De Broglie wavelength of electron is, 𝜆𝜆 = 𝑚𝑚
𝑒𝑒 𝑣𝑣

ℎ
Thus, the velocity of electron is, 𝑣𝑣 = 𝑚𝑚
𝑒𝑒 𝜆𝜆

Thus, the kinetic energy of the electron is,

1 ℎ 2 ℎ2
𝐾𝐾 = 𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒 � � = 2
2 𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒 𝜆𝜆 2𝜆𝜆 𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒
(6.6 × 10−34 Js)2
=
2(589 × 10−9 m)(9.1 × 10−31 kg)
= 6.9 × 10−25 J
1 eV
= (6.9 × 10−25 J) � �
1.6 × 10−19 J

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

= 4.31 × 10−6 eV
1 μeV
= (4.31 × 10−6 eV) � �
10−6 eV
= 4.31 μeV
The kinetic energy of electron is 4.31 μeV.
(b) The kinetic energy of neutron is,
ℎ2
𝐾𝐾 = 2
2𝜆𝜆 𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛
(6.6 × 10−34 Js)2
=
2(589 × 10−9 m)(1.66 × 10−27 kg)
= 3.78 × 10−28 J
1 eV
= (3.78 × 10−28 J) � �
1.6 × 10−19 J
= 2.36 × 10−9 eV
1 neV
= (2.36 × 10−9 eV) � �
10−9 eV
= 2.36 neV
The kinetic energy of neutron is 2.36 neV.
15. What is the de Broglie wavelength of
(a) a bullet of mass 0.040 kg travelling at the speed of 1.0 km/s,
(b) a ball of mass 0.060 kg moving at a speed of 1.0 m/s, and
(c) a dust particle of mass 1.0 × 10–9 kg drifting with a speed of 2.2 m/s?
Solution:
(a) The mass of bullet is, 𝑚𝑚 = 0.040 kg
The speed of bullet is,
𝑣𝑣 = 1 km
1000 m
= (1 km) � �
1 km
= 1000 m
The Plank’s constant is, ℎ = 6.6 × 10−34 Js
The de Broglie wavelength of the bullet is,

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

ℎ
𝜆𝜆 =
𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
6.6 × 10−34 J
=
(0.040 kg)(1000 m/s)
= 1.65 × 10−35 m
(b) The mass of ball is, 𝑚𝑚 = 0.060 kg
The speed of ball is, 𝑣𝑣 = 1.0 m/s
De Broglie wavelength of the ball is,
ℎ
𝜆𝜆 =
𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
6.6 × 10−34 J
=
(0.060 kg)(1 m/s)
= 1.1 × 10−32 m
(c) The mass of dust particle is, 𝑚𝑚 = 1 × 10−9 kg
The speed of dust particle is, 𝑣𝑣 = 2.2 m/s
The de Broglie wavelength of the dust particle is,
ℎ
𝜆𝜆 =
𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
6.6 × 10−34 J
=
(1 × 10−9 kg)(2.2 m/s)
= 3.0 × 10−25 m
16. An electron and a photon each have a wavelength of 1.00 nm. Find
(a) their momenta,
(b) the energy of the photon, and
(c) the kinetic energy of electron.
Solution:
The wavelength of the photon is 𝜆𝜆𝑝𝑝 = 1.00 nm = 1 × 10−9 m.

The wavelength of the electron is 𝜆𝜆𝑒𝑒 = 1.00 nm = 1 × 10−9 m.

(a) According to De Broglie relation, the momentum is
ℎ
𝑝𝑝 =
𝜆𝜆

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

As the momentum depends only on the wavelength, both photon and

electron have the same momentum.
6.626 × 10−34
𝑝𝑝 =
1 × 10−9
= 6.626 × 10−25 kgm/s
The momentum of photon and electron is 6.626 × 10−25 kgm/s.
(b) The energy of photon is given by,
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝐸𝐸 =
𝜆𝜆
6.626 × 10−34 × 3 × 108
=
1 × 10−9 × 1.6 × 10−19
= 1243.1 eV
= 1.243 keV
(c) The kinetic energy of the electron is,
1 𝑝𝑝2
𝐾𝐾 =
2 𝑚𝑚
1 (6.63 × 10−25 )2
=
2 9.1 × 10−31 × 1.6 × 10−19
2.415 × 10−19 J
=
1.6 × 10−19
= 1.51 eV
17. (a) For what kinetic energy of a neutron will the associated de Broglie
wavelength be 1.40 × 10–10 m?
(b) Also find the de Broglie wavelength of a neutron, in thermal equilibrium
with matter, having an average kinetic energy of (3/2) k T at 300 K.
Solution:
(a) De Broglie wavelength of the neutron is 1.40 × 10−10 m.
Neutron has a mass of 𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 = 1.66 × 10−27 kg.
The relation between kinetic energy and velocity is,
1
𝐾𝐾 = 2 𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 𝑣𝑣 2 …… (i)

The relation between De Broglie wavelength and velocity is,

ℎ
𝜆𝜆 = 𝑚𝑚 …… (ii)
𝑛𝑛 𝑣𝑣

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

Comparing equations (i) and (ii),

1 𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 ℎ2 ℎ2
𝐾𝐾 = =
2 𝜆𝜆2 𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛2 2𝜆𝜆2 𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛
Substituting the values,
(6.626 × 10−34 )2
𝐾𝐾 =
2(1.40 × 10−10 )2 × 1.66 × 10−27
= 6.75 × 10−21 J
6.75 × 10−21
=
1.6 × 10−19
= 4.219 × 10−2 eV
(b) Average kinetic energy of the neutron is,
3
𝐾𝐾′ = 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘
2
3
= × 1.38 × 10−23 × 300
2
= 6.21 × 10−21 J
The De Broglie wavelength is,
ℎ
𝜆𝜆 =
�2𝐾𝐾′𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛
6.626 × 10−34
=
√2 × 6.21 × 10−21 × 1.66 × 10−27
= 1.46 × 10−10 m
= 0.146 mm
18. Show that the wavelength of electromagnetic radiation is equal to the de Broglie
wavelength of its quantum (photon).
Solution:
The momentum of the photon is,
𝐸𝐸 ℎ𝜈𝜈 ℎ
𝑝𝑝 = = =
𝑐𝑐 𝑐𝑐 𝜆𝜆
ℎ
On rearranging, 𝜆𝜆 = 𝑝𝑝 …… (i)
ℎ
The De Broglie wavelength is, 𝜆𝜆 = 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

Substitute 𝑝𝑝for 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚.

ℎ
𝜆𝜆 = 𝑝𝑝 …… (ii)

As equation (i) and (ii) are the same, e wavelength of electromagnetic

radiation is equal to the de Broglie wavelength of its quantum.
19. What is the de Broglie wavelength of a nitrogen molecule in air at 300 K? Assume
that the molecule is moving with the root-mean square speed of molecules at this
temperature. (Atomic mass of nitrogen = 14.0076 u)
Solution:
Given
The atomic mass of nitrogen is 14.0076 u.
Thus, the mass of nitrogen molecule is,
𝑚𝑚 = 2 × 14.0076 u
= 28.0152 u
= 28.0152 × 1.66 × 10−27
The relation between the kinetic energy of the nitrogen molecule and the root mean
square speed is,
1 2
3
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟 = 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘
2 2

3𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘
𝑣𝑣𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟 = �
𝑚𝑚

Thus, the De Broglie wavelength of the nitrogen molecule is,

ℎ ℎ
𝜆𝜆 = =
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟 √3𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
6.626 × 10−34
=
√3 × 28.0152 × 1.66 × 10−27 × 1.38 × 10−23 × 300
= 0.028 × 10−9 m
= 0.028 m
Thus, the De Broglie wavelength of the nitrogen molecule is, 0.028 m.
20. (a) Estimate the speed with which electrons emitted from a heated emitter of
an evacuated tube impinge on the collector maintained at a potential
difference of 500 V with respect to the emitter. Ignore the small initial
speeds of the electrons. The specific charge of the electron, i.e., its 𝑒𝑒/𝑚𝑚 is
given to be 1.76 × 1011 C kg –1.

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

(b) Use the same formula you employ in (a) to obtain electron speed for a
collector potential of 10 MV. Do you see what is wrong ? In what way is
the formula to be modified?
Solution:
(a) Given
The potential difference across the tube is, 𝑉𝑉 = 500 V.
The specific charge of the electron is, 𝑒𝑒/𝑚𝑚 = 1.76 × 1011 C/kg.
The speed of the emitted electron is,
1
K = 𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2 = 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
2

2𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 𝑒𝑒
𝑣𝑣 = � = �2𝑉𝑉
𝑚𝑚 𝑚𝑚

Substituting the values,

𝑣𝑣 = �2 × 500 × 1.76 × 1011

= 1.327 × 107 m/s
Thus, the speed of the emitted electron is 1.327 × 107 m/s.
(b) Given
The potential of the anode is, 𝑉𝑉 = 10 MV = 10 × 106 V.
𝑒𝑒
The speed of each electron is, 𝑣𝑣 = �2𝑉𝑉 𝑚𝑚.

Substituting the values,

𝑣𝑣 = �2 × 107 × 1.76 × 1011

= 1.88 × 109 m/s
This speed is greater than the speed of light which is not possible.
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣2
This is because the expression for energy 2 can be used only in
non-relativistic situations (𝑣𝑣 << 𝑐𝑐). In relativistic situations, the
total energy is written as
𝐸𝐸 = 𝑚𝑚𝑐𝑐 2

𝑣𝑣 2
Here, 𝑚𝑚is the relativistic mass given by 𝑚𝑚 = 𝑚𝑚0 �1 − 𝑐𝑐 2 .

Here, 𝑚𝑚0 is the mass of the particle at rest.

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

Thus, the kinetic energy can be written as

𝐾𝐾 = 𝑚𝑚𝑐𝑐 2 − 𝑚𝑚0 𝑐𝑐 2
21. (a) A monoenergetic electron beam with electron speed of 5.20 × 106 m s –1 is
subject to a magnetic field of 1.30 × 10–4 T normal to the beam velocity.
What is the radius of the circle traced by the beam, given e/m for electron
equals 1.76 × 1011 C kg –1.
(b) Is the formula you employ in (a) valid for calculating radius of the path of
Solution:
(a) The speed of the electron is, 𝑣𝑣 = 5.20 × 106 m/s
The magnetic field is, 𝐵𝐵 = 1.30 × 10−4 T
The specific charge of the electron is,
𝑒𝑒 1.6 × 10−19 C
=
𝑚𝑚 9.1 × 10−31 kg

= 1.76 × 1011 C/kg

The force exerted on the electron is,
�⃗ �
𝐹𝐹 = 𝑒𝑒�𝑣𝑣⃗ × 𝐵𝐵
= 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒sin𝜃𝜃
Here, 𝜃𝜃 is the angle between velocity and magnetic field. Since the
magnetic field is normal to the direction of beam, the force is,
𝐹𝐹 = 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒sin90° = 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
The magnetic force acting on the electron will allow it to move in a
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2
circular path. Centripetal force acting on the electron is, 𝐹𝐹 =
𝑟𝑟

The magnetic force is equal in magnitude with the centripetal force.

Therefore,
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2
𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 =
𝑟𝑟
Here, 𝑟𝑟 is the radius of circular path of the electron. Thus, the radius
of electron is,
𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚 𝑣𝑣
𝑟𝑟 = =
𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 (𝑒𝑒/𝑚𝑚)𝐵𝐵
5.20 × 106 m/s
=
(1.76 × 1011 C/kg)(1.30 × 10−4 T)

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

= 0.227 m or 22.7 cm
Thus, 22.7 cm is the radius of the circular path.
(b) The energy of the electron beam is,
𝐸𝐸 = 20MeV
1 eV
= (20MeV) � −6 �
10 MeV
= 20 × 106 eV
1.6 × 10−19 J
= (20 × 106 eV) � �
1 eV
= 32 × 10−13 J
Kinetic energy of the electron is,
1
𝐸𝐸 = 𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2
2
Therefore, the speed of the electron is,

2𝐸𝐸
𝑣𝑣 = �
𝑚𝑚

2 × 36 × 10−13 J
=�
9.1 × 10−31 kg

= 2.65 × 109 m/s

No objects can move faster than light. Therefore, the result is
incorrect. Therefore, the energy equation can only use in non-
relativistic case where 𝑣𝑣 << 𝑐𝑐. In relativistic case, mass is given by,
1/2
𝑣𝑣 2
𝑚𝑚 = 𝑚𝑚0 �1 − 2 �
𝑐𝑐
Here, 𝑚𝑚0 is the rest mass of particle.
Therefore, radius of the circular path is,

𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚 𝑚𝑚0 𝑣𝑣
𝑟𝑟 = =
𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 𝑐𝑐2 −𝑣𝑣2
𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒�
𝑐𝑐2

22. An electron gun with its collector at a potential of 100 V fires out electrons in a
spherical bulb containing hydrogen gas at low pressure (~10–2 mm of Hg). A
magnetic field of 2.83 × 10–4 T curves the path of the electrons in a circular orbit

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

of radius 12.0 cm. (The path can be viewed because the gas ions in the path focus
the beam by attracting electrons and emitting light by electron capture; this method
is known as the ‘fine beam tube’ method.) Determine e/m from the data.
Solution:
The potential of the anode is, 𝑉𝑉 = 100 V
The magnetic field is, 𝐵𝐵 = 2.83 × 10−4 T
The radius of the circular orbit is,
𝑟𝑟 = 12.0 cm
1m
= (12.0 cm) � �
100 cm
= 12.0 × 10−2 m
The kinetic energy of the electron and the electron’s energy is equal in magnitude.
Therefore,
1
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣2 = 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
2
Here, 𝑚𝑚 is the mass of electron, 𝑒𝑒 is the charge of electron and 𝑣𝑣 is the
Therefore,
2𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
𝑣𝑣2 =
𝑚𝑚
The centripetal force and the magnetic force acting on the electron is equal in
magnitude. Therefore,
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣2
= 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
𝑟𝑟
𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
⇒ 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 =
𝑟𝑟
𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
⇒ 𝑣𝑣 =
𝑚𝑚
Therefore,
2
2𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
=� �
𝑚𝑚 𝑚𝑚
Therefore,
𝑒𝑒 2𝑉𝑉
= 2
𝑚𝑚 𝐵𝐵 𝑟𝑟2

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

2 × (100 V)
=
(2.83 × 10−4 T)2 × (12.0 × 10−2 m)2
= 1.73 × 1011 C/kg
Thus, 1.73 × 1011 C/kg is the specific charge ratio.
23. (a) An X-ray tube produces a continuous spectrum of radiation with its short
wavelength end at 0.45 Å. What is the maximum energy of a photon in the
radiation?
(b) From your answer to (a), guess what order of accelerating voltage (for
electrons) is required in such a tube?
Solution:
(a) Given,
The wavelength of the X-ray is, 𝜆𝜆 = 0.45 Å = 0.45 × 10−10 m.
The maximum energy of the photon in the radiation is,
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝐸𝐸 =
𝜆𝜆
6.626 × 10−34 × 3 × 108
=
0.45 × 10−10 × 1.6 × 1019
= 27.6 × 103 eV
= 27.6 keV
Thus, the maximum energy of the photon in the radiation is
27.6 keV.
(b) The photons have a maximum energy of 27.6 keV. The energy for
producing X-rays by electrons is given by accelerating voltage. For
the X-ray to have an energy of 27.6 keV, the electrons must have at
least an energy of 27.6 keV. Thus, for producing X-rays, an
accelerating voltage of the order of 30 keVis required.
24. In an accelerator experiment on high-energy collisions of electrons with positrons,
a certain event is interpreted as annihilation of an electron-positron pair of total
energy 10.2 BeV into two 𝛾𝛾-rays of equal energy. What is the wavelength
associated with each 𝛾𝛾-ray? (1 BeV = 109 eV)
Solution:
Given,
The total energy of two 𝛾𝛾-rays is
𝐸𝐸 = 10.2 BeV

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

= 10.2 × 109 eV
= 10.2 × 109 × 1.6 × 10−19 J
The energy of each 𝛾𝛾-ray is,
𝐸𝐸
𝐸𝐸′ =
2
10.2 × 109 × 1.6 × 10−19 J
=
2
= 8.16 × 10−10 J
The wavelength associated with 𝛾𝛾-ray is,
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝐸𝐸′ =
𝜆𝜆
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝜆𝜆 =
𝐸𝐸′
6.626 × 10−34 × 3 × 108
=
8.16 × 10−10
= 2.436 × 10−16 m
Thus, the wavelength associated with 𝛾𝛾-ray is 2.436 × 10−16 m.
25. Estimating the following two numbers should be interesting. The first number will
tell you why radio engineers do not need to worry much about photons! The second
number tells you why our eye can never ‘count photons’, even in barely detectable
light.
(a) The number of photons emitted per second by a Medium wave transmitter
of 10 kW power, emitting radio waves of wavelength 500 m.
(b) The number of photons entering the pupil of our eye per second
corresponding to the minimum intensity of white light that we humans can
perceive (~10– 10 W m–2 ). Take the area of the pupil to be about 0.4 cm2 ,
and the average frequency of white light to be about 6 × 1014 Hz.
Solution:
(a) Given
The wave transmitter’s power is 𝑃𝑃 = 10 kW = 104 W = 104 J/s.
Thus, the energy emitted per second by the transmitter is 104 J.
The radio wave has a wavelength of 𝜆𝜆 = 500 m.
The energy of the wave is

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝐸𝐸1 =
𝜆𝜆
6.6 × 10−34 × 3 × 108
=
500
= 3.96 × 10−28 J
Assume the n is the number of photons that the transmitter emits.
Thus,
𝑛𝑛𝐸𝐸1 = 𝐸𝐸
𝐸𝐸
𝑛𝑛 =
𝐸𝐸1
104
=
3.96 × 10−28
= 2.525 × 1031
≈ 3 × 1031
Even though the number of photons emitted per second is large, the energy
of the emitted photon is less.
(b) Given
The minimum intensity of light perceived by the human eye is, 𝐼𝐼 =
10−10 W/m2 .
The average frequency of the white light is, 𝜈𝜈 = 6 × 1014 Hz.
The area of the pupil is, 𝐴𝐴 = 0.4 cm2 = 0.4 × 10−4 m2 .
The energy emitted by the photon is,
𝐸𝐸 = ℎ𝜈𝜈
= 6.626 × 10−34 × 6 × 1014
= 3.96 × 10−19 J
Let 𝑛𝑛 be a number that represents the number of photons falling per second
per unit area of the pupil.
For n falling protons, the total energy per unit area per unit second is,
𝐸𝐸 = 𝑛𝑛 × 3.96 × 10−19 J s −1 m−2
As intensity is the energy per unit area per second,
𝐸𝐸 = 𝐼𝐼

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

𝑛𝑛 × 3.96 × 10−19 = 10−10

10−10
𝑛𝑛 =
3.96 × 10−19
= 2.52 × 108 m2 s −1
Total number of photons entering the pupil per second is given by
𝑛𝑛𝐴𝐴 = 𝑛𝑛𝑛𝑛
= 2.52 × 108 × 0.4 × 10−4
= 1.008 × 104 𝑠𝑠 −1
Even though the number is not as large as the number in (a), it is large
enough that the human eye cannot see individual photons.
26. Ultraviolet light of wavelength 2271 Å from a 100 W mercury source irradiates a
photo-cell made of molybdenum metal. If the stopping potential is – 1.3 V, estimate
the work function of the metal. How would the photo-cell respond to a high
intensity (~105 W m–2 ) red light of wavelength 6328 Å produced by a He-Ne
laser?
Solution:
Given
The wavelength of the ultraviolet light is, 𝜆𝜆 = 2271 Å = 2271 × 10−10 m.
The metal has a stopping potential of 𝑉𝑉0 = 1.3 V.
The equation for work function according to photoelectric effect is,
𝜙𝜙0 = ℎ𝜈𝜈 − 𝑒𝑒𝑉𝑉0
ℎ𝑐𝑐
= − 𝑒𝑒𝑉𝑉0
𝜆𝜆
6.626 × 10−34 × 3 × 108
= − 1.6 × 10−19 × 1.3
2271 × 10−10
= 8.72 × 10−19 − 2.08 × 10−19
= 6.64 × 10−19 J
6.64 × 10−19
=
1.6 × 10−19
= 4.15 eV
If 𝜈𝜈0 is the threshold frequency of the metal, then
𝜙𝜙0 = ℎ𝜈𝜈0

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

𝜙𝜙0
⇒ 𝜈𝜈0 =
ℎ
6.64 × 10−19
=
6.6 × 10−34
= 1.006 × 1015 Hz
𝑐𝑐
The frequency of the red light is, 𝜈𝜈𝑟𝑟 = 𝜆𝜆 .
𝑟𝑟

Substitute 6328 × 10−10 mfor 𝜆𝜆𝑟𝑟 in the above equation,

3 × 108
𝜈𝜈𝑟𝑟 = −10
= 4.74 × 1014 Hz
6328 × 10
Thus, the photocell will not respond to the red light from the laser as 𝜈𝜈0 > 𝜈𝜈𝑟𝑟 .
27. Monochromatic radiation of wavelength 640.2 nm (1 nm = 10–9 m) from a neon
lamp irradiates photosensitive material made of cesium on tungsten. The stopping
voltage is measured to be 0.54 V. The source is replaced by an iron source and its
427.2 nm line irradiates the same photocell. Predict the new stopping voltage.
Solution:
Given
Wavelength of the monochromatic radiation is, 𝜆𝜆 = 640.2 nm = 640.2 × 10−9 m.
The stopping voltage for the lamp is, 𝑉𝑉0 = 0.54 V.
According to photoelectric effect, the relation between work function and
frequency is,
𝑒𝑒𝑉𝑉0 = ℎ𝜈𝜈 − 𝜙𝜙0
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝜙𝜙0 = − 𝑒𝑒𝑉𝑉0
𝜆𝜆
6.626 × 10−34 × 3 × 108
= − 1.6 × 10−19 × 0.54
640.2 × 10−9
= 3.093 × 10−19 − 0.864 × 10−19
= 2.229 × 10−19 J
2.229 × 10−19
=
1.6 × 10−19
= 1.39 eV
The wavelength of the wave from the iron source is𝜆𝜆′ = 427.2 nm =
427.2 × 10−9 m.
From the photoelectric equation, the new stopping potential is,

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝑒𝑒𝑉𝑉0 ′ = − 𝜙𝜙0
𝜆𝜆
6.626 × 10−34 × 3 × 108
= − 2.229 × 10−19
427.2 × 10−9
= 4.63 × 10−19 − 2.229 × 10−19
= 2.401 × 10−19 J
2.401 × 10−19
=
1.6 × 10−19
= 1.5 eV
Thus, the new stopping potential is 1.5 eV.
28. A mercury lamp is a convenient source for studying frequency dependence of
photoelectric emission, since it gives a number of spectral lines ranging from the
UV to the red end of the visible spectrum. In our experiment with rubidium photo-
cell, the following lines from a mercury source were used: 𝜆𝜆1 = 3650 Å, 𝜆𝜆2 =
4047 Å, 𝜆𝜆3 = 4358 Å, 𝜆𝜆4 = 5461 Å, 𝜆𝜆5 = 6907 Å, The stopping voltages,
respectively, were measured to be: 𝑉𝑉01 = 1.28 𝑉𝑉, 𝑉𝑉02 = 0.95 𝑉𝑉, 𝑉𝑉03 = 0.74 𝑉𝑉,
𝑉𝑉04 = 0.16 𝑉𝑉, 𝑉𝑉05 = 0 𝑉𝑉. Determine the value of Planck’s constant ℎ, the
threshold frequency and work function for the material.
Solution:
According to Einstein’s photoelectric equation,
𝑒𝑒𝑉𝑉0 = ℎ𝜈𝜈 − 𝜙𝜙0
ℎ 𝜙𝜙0
⇒ 𝑉𝑉0 = 𝜈𝜈 −
𝑒𝑒 𝑒𝑒
Here, 𝑉𝑉0 is the stopping potential, ℎ is the Plank’s constant, 𝑒𝑒 is the charge of
electron, 𝜈𝜈 is the frequency of the radiation and 𝜙𝜙0 is the work function of a
material.
The stopping potential is directionally proportional to frequency.
𝑐𝑐
The frequency is, 𝜈𝜈 = 𝜆𝜆

Here, 𝑐𝑐 is the speed of light and 𝜆𝜆 is the wavelength.

Therefore, the frequencies for various lines of given wavelengths can be obtained.
𝑐𝑐 3 × 108 m/s
𝜈𝜈1 = = = 8.219 × 1014 Hz
𝜆𝜆1 3650 × 10−10 m
𝑐𝑐 3 × 108 m/s
𝜈𝜈2 = = = 7.412 × 1014 Hz
𝜆𝜆2 4047 × 10−10 m

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

𝑐𝑐 3 × 108 m/s
𝜈𝜈3 = = = 6.884 × 1014 Hz
𝜆𝜆3 4358 × 10 −10
m
𝑐𝑐 3 × 108 m/s
𝜈𝜈4 = = = 5.493 × 1014 Hz
𝜆𝜆4 5461 × 10 −10
m
𝑐𝑐 3 × 108 m/s
𝜈𝜈5 = = = 4.343 × 1014 Hz
𝜆𝜆5 6907 × 10−10 m
The tabular form of the data is,
Frequency × 1014 Hz 8.219 7.412 6.884 5.493 4.343
StoppingPotential𝑉𝑉0 1.28 0.95 0.74 0.16 0
The graph between frequency and stopping potential is,

The curve of the graph is straight line and it intersects the axis of frequency at
5 × 1014 Hz. Therefore, 5 × 1014 Hz is the threshold frequency of the material.
Therefore, for 𝜆𝜆5 there will not be any photo electric emission and no stopping
voltage is required.
Slope of the line is,
𝐴𝐴𝐴𝐴 1.28 − 0.16 V
=
𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 (8.214 − 5.493) × 1014 Hz

= 4.12 × 10−15 V/Hz

From equation for stopping potential, the slope is,
ℎ
= 4.12 × 1015 V/Hz
𝑒𝑒
Therefore, the Plank’s constant is,

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

ℎ = (4.12 × 1015 V/Hz)𝑒𝑒

= (4.12 × 1015 V/Hz)(1.6 × 10−19 C)
= 6.573 × 10−34 Js
The work function of the metal is,
𝜙𝜙0 = ℎ𝑣𝑣0
= (6.573 × 10−34 Js)(5 × 1014 Hz)
= 3.286 × 10−19 J
1 eV
= (3.286 × 10−19 J) � �
1.6 × 10−19 J
= 2.054 eV
29. The work function for the following metals is given: Na: 2.75 eV; K: 2.30 eV; Mo:
4.17 eV; Ni: 5.15 eV. Which of these metals will not give photoelectric emission
for a radiation of wavelength 3300 Å from a He-Cd laser placed 1 m away from the
photocell? What happens if the laser is brought nearer and place 50 cm away?
Solution:
The wavelength of the radiation is,
𝜆𝜆 = 3300 Å
1m
= (3300 Å) � 10 �
10 Å
= 3300 × 10−10 m
The speed of light is, 𝑐𝑐 = 3 × 108 m/s
The Plank’s constant is, ℎ = 6.6 × 10−34 Js
The energy of the incident radiation is,
ℎ𝑐𝑐
𝐸𝐸 =
𝜆𝜆
6.6 × 10−34 J × 3 × 108 m/s
=
3300 × 10−10 m
= 6 × 10−19 J
1 eV
= (6 × 10−19 J) � �
1.6 × 10−19 J
= 3.16 eV

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

The energy exceeds the work function of K and Na alone. Therefore, both Ni and
Mo will not show photo electric emission. The intensity of incident light increases
as the source brought near. However, it will not affect the energy of the radiation,
but the photoelectron emitted from K and Na increase in proportion to intensity.
30. Light of intensity 10–5 W m–2 falls on a sodium photo-cell of surface area 2 cm2 .
Assuming that the top 5 layers of sodium absorb the incident energy, estimate time
required for photoelectric emission in the wave-picture of radiation. The work
function for the metal is given to be about 2 eV. What is the implication of your
answer?
Solution:
The intensity of the incident light is, 𝐼𝐼 = 10−5 W/m2
The surface area of the sodium cell is,
𝐴𝐴 = 2 cm2
1 m2
= (2 cm2 ) � 4 �
10 cm2
= 2 × 10−4 m2
The power if the incident life is,
𝑃𝑃 = 𝐼𝐼𝐼𝐼
= 10−5 W/m2 × 2 × 10−4 m2
= 2 × 10−9 W
The work function of the metal,
𝜙𝜙0 = 2 eV
1.6 × 10−19 J
= (2 eV) � �
1 eV
= 3.2 × 10−19 J
The number of layers of sodium that absorbs the incident energy, 𝑛𝑛 = 5
The effective atomic area of sodium atom is, 𝐴𝐴𝑒𝑒 = 10−20 m2
Therefore, the number of conduction electrons in 𝑛𝑛 layers is,
𝐴𝐴
𝑛𝑛′ = 𝑛𝑛 ×
𝐴𝐴𝑒𝑒
2 × 10−4 m2
=5×
10−20 m2
= 1017

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

The electrons uniformly absorb incident power. Amount of energy absorbed per
second per electron is given by,
𝑃𝑃
𝐸𝐸 =
𝑛𝑛′
2 × 10−9 W
=
1017
= 2 × 10−26 J/s
The time required for photoelectric emission is,
𝜙𝜙0
𝑡𝑡 =
𝐸𝐸
3.2 × 10−19
=
2 × 10−26
= 1.6 × 107 s
1 year
= (1.6 × 107 s) � �
3.15 × 107 s
= 0.51 years
The photoelectric emission will not take half a year. Therefore, the wave picture is
not incorrect.
31. Crystal diffraction experiments can be performed using X-rays, or electrons
accelerated through appropriate voltage. Which probe has greater energy? (For
quantitative comparison, take the wavelength of the probe equal to 1 Å, which is of
the order of inter-atomic spacing in the lattice) (me = 9.11 × 10–31 kg).
Solution:
Given
The wavelength of the probe is, 𝜆𝜆 = 1 Å = 1 × 10−10 m.
The mass of the electron is, 𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒 = 9.1 × 10−31 kg.
For the same wavelength, an X-ray probe has greater energy than an electron probe.
The kinetic energy of the electron is,
1
𝐸𝐸 = 𝑚𝑚 𝑣𝑣 2
2 𝑒𝑒

2𝐸𝐸
⇒ 𝑣𝑣 = �
𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒

𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒 𝑣𝑣 = �2𝐸𝐸𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

Here, 𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒 𝑣𝑣 is the momentum of the electron.

The De Broglie wavelength, according to De Broglie relation is,
ℎ ℎ ℎ
𝜆𝜆 = = =
𝑝𝑝 𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒 𝑣𝑣 �2𝐸𝐸𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒

ℎ2
𝐸𝐸 =
2𝜆𝜆2 𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒
(6.626 × 10−34 )2
=
2(1 × 10−10 )2 × 9.11 × 10−31
= 2.39 × 10−17 J
2.39 × 10−17
=
1.6 × 10−19
= 12.375 × 103 eV
= 12.375 keV
Thus, it can be concluded that, for the same wavelength, a proton has greater than
an electron.
32. (a) Obtain the de Broglie wavelength of a neutron of kinetic energy 150 eV. As
you have seen in Exercise 11.31, an electron beam of this energy is suitable
for crystal diffraction experiments. Would a neutron beam of the same
energy be equally suitable? Explain. (mn = 1.675 × 10–27 kg)
(b) Obtain the de Broglie wavelength associated with thermal neutrons at room
temperature (27 °C). Hence explain why a fast neutron beam needs to be
thermalised with the environment before it can be used for neutron
diffraction experiments.
Solution:
(a) The de Broglie wavelength is, 2.327 × 10−12 m
The kinetic energy of neutron is,
𝐾𝐾 = 150 eV
1.6 × 10−19 J
= (150 eV) � �
1 eV
= 2.4 × 10−17 J
The mass of the neutron is, 𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 = 1.675 × 10−27 kg
The kinetic energy of the neutron is,

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

1
𝐾𝐾 = 𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 𝑣𝑣 2
2
Here, 𝑣𝑣 is the velocity of neutron.
Therefore, the momentum of the neutron is,
𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 𝑣𝑣 = �2𝐾𝐾𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛
De Broglie wavelength of the neutron is,
ℎ ℎ
𝜆𝜆 = =
𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 𝑣𝑣 �2𝐾𝐾𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛

Therefore, the wavelength is inversely proportional to the square root of the

mass.
The wavelength is,
6.6 × 10−34 J
𝜆𝜆 =
�2 × 2.4 × 10−17 J × 1.675 × 10−27 kg
= 2.327 × 10−12 m
The inter atomic spacing of a crystal is about 10−10 m. Thus,
150 eVneutron beam is not suitable for diffraction.
(b) The de Broglie wavelength is, 1.44 × 10−10 m
The Boltzmann constant is 1.38 × 10−23 J/molK
The room temperature is,
𝑇𝑇 = 27°C
= (27 + 273) K
= 300 K
The average kinetic energy of neutron is,
3
𝐸𝐸 = 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘
2
The wavelength of the neutron is,
ℎ ℎ
𝜆𝜆 = =
�2𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 𝐸𝐸 �3𝑚𝑚𝑛𝑛 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘
6.6 × 10−34 Js
=
�3(1.675 × 10−27 kg)(1.38 × 10−23 J/molK)(300 K)
= 1.447 × 10−10 m

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

Therefore, the neutron beam can be used to diffraction after thermalizing.

33. An electron microscope uses electrons accelerated by a voltage of 50 kV.
Determine the de Broglie wavelength associated with the electrons. If other factors
(such as numerical aperture, etc.) are taken to be roughly the same, how does the
resolving power of an electron microscope compare with that of an optical
microscope which uses yellow light?
Solution:
Given
The voltage used to accelerate the electrons is, 𝑉𝑉 = 50 kV = 50 × 103 V.
The yellow light has a wavelength of, 𝜆𝜆 = 5.9 × 10−7 m.
The kinetic energy of the electron is,
𝐸𝐸 = 𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒
= 1.6 × 10−19 × 50 × 103
= 8 × 10−15 J
According to De Broglie relation, the wavelength is,
ℎ
𝜆𝜆 =
�2𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑒 𝐸𝐸
6.6 × 10−34
=
√2 × 9.11 × 10−31 × 8 × 10−15
= 5.467 × 10−12 m
The relation between wavelength and resolving power of a microscope is that the
resolving power of a microscope depends inversely on the wavelength of the light
used. The De Broglie wavelength is about 105 times smaller than the wavelength of
the yellow light. Thus, an electron microscope has 105 times the resolving power
compared to an optical microscope.
34. The wavelength of a probe is roughly a measure of the size of a structure that it can
probe in some detail. The quark structure of protons and neutrons appears at the
minute length-scale of 10–15 m or less. This structure was first probed in early
1970’s using high energy electron beams produced by a linear accelerator at
Stanford, USA. Guess what might have been the order of energy of these electron
beams. (Rest mass energy of electron = 0.511 MeV.)
Solution:
The wavelength of the proton or a neutron, 𝜆𝜆 ≈ 10−15 m
The rest mass energy of an electron is,

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

𝑚𝑚0 𝑐𝑐2 = 0.511 MeV

106 eV 1.6 × 10−19 J
= (0.511 MeV) � �� �
1 MeV 1 eV
= 0.8176 × 10−13 J
The Plank’s constant is, ℎ = 6.6 × 10−34 Js
The speed of light, 𝑐𝑐 = 3 × 108 m/s
The momentum of a proton or a neutron is,
ℎ
𝑝𝑝 =
𝜆𝜆
6.6 × 10−34 Js
=
10−15 m
= 6.6 × 10−19 kg m/s
The relativistic equation for energy is,
𝐸𝐸2 = 𝑝𝑝2 𝑐𝑐2 + 𝑚𝑚20 𝑐𝑐4

⇒ 𝐸𝐸 = �𝑝𝑝2 𝑐𝑐 2 + 𝑚𝑚02 𝑐𝑐 4

= �(6.6 × 10−19 kgm/s × 3 × 108 m/s)2 + (0.8176 × 10−13 )2

= �392 × 10−22 J 2
= 1.98 × 10−10 J
1 eV
= (1.98 × 10−10 J) � �
1.6 × 10−19 J
= 1.24 × 109 eV
1 BeV
= (1.24 × 109 eV) � 9 �
10 eV
= 1.24 BeV
Therefore, 1.24 BeVelectron energy is emitted.
35. Find the typical de Broglie wavelength associated with a He atom in helium gas at
room temperature (27 °C) and 1 atm pressure; and compare it with the mean
separation between two atoms under these conditions.
Solution:
De Broglie wavelength associated with He atom is, 0.7268 × 10−10 m

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

The room temperature is,

𝑇𝑇 = 27 °C
= (27 + 273) K
= 300 K
The atmospheric pressure is,
𝑃𝑃 = 1 atm
1.01 × 105 Pa
= (1 atm) � �
1 atm
= 1.01 × 105 Pa
The atomic weight of a He atom 𝑊𝑊 = 4 g
The Avogadro’s number is, 𝑁𝑁𝐴𝐴 = 6.023 × 1023
The Boltzmann constant is, 𝑘𝑘 = 1.38 × 10−23 J/molK
The average energy of a gas is,
3
𝐸𝐸 = 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘
2
Here, 𝑇𝑇 is the temperature.
The de Broglie wavelength is,
ℎ
𝜆𝜆 =
√2𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
Here, 𝑚𝑚is the mass of He atom.
𝑊𝑊
𝑚𝑚 =
𝑁𝑁𝐴𝐴
4g
=
6.023 × 1023
= 6.64 × 10−24 g
1 kg
= (6.64 × 10−24 g) � �
1000 g
= 6.64 × 10−27 g
The de Broglie wavelength is,
ℎ
𝜆𝜆 =
√3𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

6.6 × 10−34 Js
=
�(3)(6.64 × 10−27 kg)(1.38 × 10−23 J/mol K) × 300 K
= 0.7268 × 10−10 m
The ideal gas formula is,
𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃 = 𝑅𝑅𝑅𝑅
𝑃𝑃𝑃𝑃 = 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘
𝑉𝑉 𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘
=
𝑁𝑁 𝑃𝑃
Here, 𝑉𝑉 is the volume of the gas and 𝑁𝑁 is the number of moles of the gas.
The mean separation between two atoms of the gas is,
𝑉𝑉 1/3
𝑟𝑟 = � �
𝑁𝑁
𝑘𝑘𝑘𝑘 1/3
=� �
𝑃𝑃
(1.38 × 10−23 J/molK)(300 K)
=� �
1.01 × 105 Pa
= 3.35 × 10−9 m
Therefore, the mean separation between two atoms of the gas is greater than de
Broglie wavelength.
36. Compute the typical de Broglie wavelength of an electron in a metal at 27 °C and
compare it with the mean separation between two electrons in a metal which is
given to be about 2 × 10–10 m.
Solution:
The Plank’s constant is, ℎ = 6.6 × 10−34 Js
The mass of the electron is, 𝑚𝑚 = 9.11 × 10−31 kg
The Boltzmann constant is, 𝑘𝑘 = 1.38 × 10−23 J/molK
The room temperature is,
𝑇𝑇 = 27°C
= (27 + 273) K
= 300 K
The mean separation between two electrons is, 𝑟𝑟 = 2 × 10−10 m

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The de Broglie wavelength is,

ℎ
𝜆𝜆 =
√3𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
6.6 × 10−34 J s
=
�2(9.11 × 10−31 kg)(1.38 × 10−23 J/molK)(300 K)
= 6.2 × 10−9 m
Therefore, the inter-electron separation is much less than de Broglie wavelength.
37. Answer the following questions:
(a) Quarks inside protons and neutrons are thought to carry fractional charges
[(+2/3)𝑒𝑒 ; (– 1/3)𝑒𝑒]. Why do they not show up in Millikan’s oil-drop
experiment?
(b) What is so special about the combination 𝑒𝑒/𝑚𝑚? Why do we not simply talk
of 𝑒𝑒 and 𝑚𝑚 separately?
(c) Why should gases be insulators at ordinary pressures and start conducting
at very low pressures?
(d) 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?
(e) The energy and momentum of an electron are related to the frequency and
ℎ
wavelength of the associated matter wave by the relations: 𝐸𝐸 = ℎ𝜈𝜈, 𝑝𝑝 = 𝜆𝜆.
But while the value of 𝜆𝜆 is physically significant, the value of 𝜈𝜈 (and
therefore, the value of the phase speed 𝜈𝜈𝜈𝜈) has no physical significance.
Why?
Solution:
(a) The quarks situated inside neutron and proton carries fractional charges
since if the pulled apart, the nuclear force increase extremely. Therefore,
fractional charges can be present in nature and the observable charges are
the integral multiple of electric charge.
(b) The kinetic energy of an electron moving in a potential is,
1
𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 = 𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2
2
Here, 𝑒𝑒 is the charge of electron, 𝑉𝑉 is the potential, 𝑚𝑚is the mass of electron
and 𝑣𝑣 is the velocity of electron.
The velocity is,

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Class- XII-CBSE-Physics Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter

𝑒𝑒
𝑣𝑣 = �2𝑉𝑉 � �
𝑚𝑚
The centripetal force acting on an electron in a magnetic field is,
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2
𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒 =
𝑟𝑟
Here, 𝐵𝐵 is the magnetic field and 𝑟𝑟 is the radius of rotation of the electron.
The velocity is,
𝑒𝑒
𝑣𝑣 = 𝐵𝐵𝐵𝐵 � �
𝑚𝑚
Therefore, the dynamics of the electron is determined by the ratio 𝑒𝑒/𝑚𝑚 and
not by 𝑒𝑒 and 𝑚𝑚 separately.
(c) Gases are insulator at atmospheric pressure since the ions of gases will not
have any chance to reach their respective electrons at due to the collision.
The ions have a chance to reach their respective electrons and produce an
electric current only at low pressure.
(d) The work function of a metal is defined as the minimum energy required
for an electron to get out of the surface of the metal. The electrons in an
atom will have different energy levels. When a photon ray of some energy
is incident on the metal, electrons of different energies are emitted from
different levels. Thus, the photoelectrons show different energy
distributions.
(e) As the absolute value of energy for a particle is arbitrary within the additive
constant, the frequency associated with an electron has no physical
significance whereas the wavelength is significant.
Thus, the product of frequency and wavelength 𝜈𝜈𝜈𝜈has no physical significance.
The group speed can be shown as
𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑
𝑣𝑣G =
𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑
𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑 𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑
= =
1
𝑑𝑑 � � 𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑
𝜆𝜆
𝑝𝑝2
𝑑𝑑 �2𝑚𝑚� 𝑝𝑝
= =
𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑 𝑚𝑚
This is a quantity with physical meaning.

⧫⧫⧫

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