What is the term for the minimum energy needed to remove an electron from a metal surface?
A
Ionization energy
B
Binding energy
C
Work function
D
Activation energy
Correct Answer: Option C — Work function
Explanation:
Work function is the minimum energy required to remove an electron from the surface of a metal, a concept crucial to understanding the photoelectric effect. It varies between different metals and determines their electron emission properties under light exposure.