Following graphs show the variation of stopping potential corresponding to the frequency of incident radiation (F) for a given metal. The correct variation is shown in graph ( v 0 = Threshold frequency) :
Following graphs show the variation of stopping potential corresponding to the frequency of incident radiation (F) for a given metal. The correct variation is shown in graph ( v 0 = Threshold frequency) :

  1. (1)
  2. (2)
  3. (3)
  4. (4)

Solution: The correct answer is A. (1)

The stopping potential is the amount of energy required to prevent an electron from reaching the outside world. Electrons are emitted from the metal surface when the frequency of radiation exceeds these threshold frequencies. The minimum frequency required to remove an electron from a metal surface is known as the threshold frequency. So, at Vo (threshold frequency), electrons are withdrawn, and substantial energy is required to stop these electrons, i.e., the stopping potential grows as frequency increases after Vo because more electrons are expelled from the metal surface.