
The phenomenon was fundamentally significant in the development of modern physics because of the puzzling questions it raised about the nature of light-particle versus wavelike behaviour-that were finally resolved by Albert Einstein in 1905. In a broader definition, the radiant energy may be infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light, X-rays, or gamma rays the material may be a solid, liquid, or gas and the released particles may be ions (electrically charged atoms or molecules) as well as electrons.

The effect is often defined as the ejection of electrons from a metal plate when light falls on it. Photoelectric effect, phenomenon in which electrically charged particles are released from or within a material when it absorbs electromagnetic radiation. SpaceNext50 Britannica presents SpaceNext50, From the race to the Moon to space stewardship, we explore a wide range of subjects that feed our curiosity about space!Ĭonsider how Heinrich Hertz's discovery of the photoelectric effect led to Albert Einstein's theory of light See all videos for this article.Learn about the major environmental problems facing our planet and what can be done about them! Saving Earth Britannica Presents Earth’s To-Do List for the 21st Century.Britannica Beyond We’ve created a new place where questions are at the center of learning.100 Women Britannica celebrates the centennial of the Nineteenth Amendment, highlighting suffragists and history-making politicians.COVID-19 Portal While this global health crisis continues to evolve, it can be useful to look to past pandemics to better understand how to respond today.


Student Portal Britannica is the ultimate student resource for key school subjects like history, government, literature, and more.Demystified Videos In Demystified, Britannica has all the answers to your burning questions.

