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Edexcel A-Level Physics Thermionic Emission

Practise Edexcel A-Level Physics thermionic emission by explaining heated-filament electron release and acceleration in electron guns.

Syllabus
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary/Advanced Level
Course
Physics XPH11/YPH11
Level
A2

Exam points

  • identify and explain thermionic emission from a current-heated metal filament
  • calculate electron speed after acceleration by linking work done by voltage to kinetic energy

4.5.113 - Thermionic emission and acceleration question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

The photograph shows a hospital radiotherapy machine that contains a linear accelerator (linac). The linac accelerates electrons to very high speeds for use in treating cancer.

(c) Alexander Tihonov/Pearson Asset Library)

(c) Alexander Tihonov/Pearson Asset Library)

The electrons used in the linac are produced by the filament in an electron gun, as shown in the diagram.

Figure for Question 4.5.113 - Thermionic emission and acceleration question 1 — Edexcel A-Level Physics A2

Name and describe the process in which electrons are produced by the filament.

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