Class NEET 2026 ALL Q #1940
COMPETENCY BASED
APPLY
4 Marks 2026 NTA-RE-NEET-2026 MCQ SINGLE
A ray of light with wavelength $\lambda$ is incident on three different photoelectric cells namely 1, 2 and 3. The threshold wavelength of these photoelectric cells are $\lambda_{1}$, $\lambda_{2},$ and $\lambda_{3,}$ respectively and the magnitude of stopping potentials of these cells are $V_{1}$, $V_{2}$ and $V_{3},$ respectively. The relation between $\lambda$ and threshold wavelengths are $\lambda_{1}<\lambda$, $\lambda_{2}>\lambda$ and $\lambda_{3}>>\lambda$. The correct option is:
(A) $V_{1}
(B) $V_{1}=0, V_{2}
(C) $V_{1}=0, V_{2}>V_{3}$
(D) $V_{1}>V_{2}, V_{3}=0$
Correct Answer: B

AI Tutor Explanation

Powered by Gemini

Detailed Solution

Step 1: Einstein's Photoelectric Equation

The photoelectric equation is given by: $$eV = \frac{hc}{\lambda} - \frac{hc}{\lambda_0}$$ where $V$ is the stopping potential, $\lambda$ is the incident wavelength, and $\lambda_0$ is the threshold wavelength.

Step 2: Analyzing the conditions

Photoelectric emission occurs only if $\lambda < \lambda_0$. If $\lambda \ge \lambda_0$, the kinetic energy is zero, and thus the stopping potential $V = 0$.

Step 3: Evaluating the cells

Given $\lambda_1 < \lambda$, emission is not possible, so $V_1 = 0$. Given $\lambda_3 > \lambda$, emission occurs. Since $\lambda_2$ is between $\lambda_1$ and $\lambda_3$, we compare the potentials. As $\lambda_0$ increases, the work function $\phi = \frac{hc}{\lambda_0}$ decreases, leading to a higher stopping potential for a fixed $\lambda$. Since $\lambda_2 < \lambda_3$, the work function for cell 2 is higher than cell 3, hence $V_2 < V_3$.

Final Answer: B

AI generated content. Review strictly for academic accuracy.

Pedagogical Audit
Bloom's Analysis: This is an APPLY question because the student must apply the photoelectric effect equation to compare variables across three distinct physical scenarios.
Knowledge Dimension: CONCEPTUAL
Justification: The question tests the understanding of the relationship between threshold wavelength, incident wavelength, and stopping potential rather than rote memorization of formulas.
Syllabus Audit: In the context of NEET, this is classified as COMPETENCY. It requires the student to interpret physical constraints and deduce the outcome based on the photoelectric effect principles.