Definition

An electron that is emitted from a material when it absorbs light or other electromagnetic radiation.

Example

When light hits the surface of the metal, a photoelectron is released.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a photoelectron?

Yeah, isn't it an electron that gets released when light hits a material?

Exactly! It's fascinating how light can cause such reactions.

Totally! It really shows how interconnected physics and chemistry are.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Photoelectron → It is formed from "photo-" (from Greek "phōs", meaning light) and "electron" (from Greek "ēlektron", meaning amber or the source of electric charge). The word "photoelectron" refers to an electron that is emitted from a material as a result of the absorption of light.

Memory Tip

Think of 'light' ('photo-') causing an 'electron' to be emitted — that's why a photoelectron is an electron released by light.

Visually Confused Words