photoelectric effect

noun Physics.

the phenomenon in which the absorption of electromagnetic radiation, as light, of sufficiently high frequency by a surface, usually metallic, induces the emission of electrons from the surface.
Also called photoemission.

Origin of photoelectric effect

First recorded in 1890–95

Words nearby photoelectric effect

photodynia, photoelasticity, photoelectric, photoelectric cell, photoelectric current, photoelectric effect, photoelectric magnitude, photoelectric meter, photoelectric threshold, photoelectricity, photoelectron

British Dictionary definitions for photoelectric effect

photoelectric effect

noun

the ejection of electrons from a solid by an incident beam of sufficiently energetic electromagnetic radiation
any phenomenon involving electricity and electromagnetic radiation, such as photoemission

Scientific definitions for photoelectric effect

photoelectric effect

The emission of electrons from a material, such as a metal, as a result of being struck by photons. Some substances, such as selenium, are particularly susceptible to this effect. The photoelectric effect is used in photoelectric and solar cells to create an electric potential. Also called photoemission

Cultural definitions for photoelectric effect

photoelectric effect

The emission of electrons from a metal when light shines on it. The effect is widely used to convert a light signal into an electric current (see also current).