Chemistry: The Molecular Science (5th Edition)

Published by Cengage Learning
ISBN 10: 1285199049
ISBN 13: 978-1-28519-904-7

Chapter 5 - Electron Configurations and the Periodic Table - Questions for Review and Thought - Topical Questions - Page 240a,: 21

Answer

It has to do with energy, not intensity.

Work Step by Step

Again, the ejection of electrons has to do with the wavelength, not the intensity. Clearly, the red light is not of high enough energy to lead to any electrons being ejected. Contrarily, the blue light, though dim, has a shorter wavelength and thus more energy. Thus, it can eject an electron when red light cannot.
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