The solar panels used by Mark function because of the photoelectric effect. Light shines on the cells causing electrons to be ejected from the metal, which produces an electric current. At night on Mars, no light will fall on the solar cells and no electric current will be generated.

Question

Choose one • 5 points
Scene from the Martian: Astronaut walks toward solar panels on Mars.
According to your notes, what type of light is typically needed to cause the photoelectric effect?

Visible

Ultraviolet

Infrared

Answer 1

The type of light typically needed to cause the photoelectric effect is Ultraviolet light.