E2 Atomic World MCQ

[E2] 43. Atomic World (MC) Page 43.
[E2] 43. Atomic World (MC)
Part 1 CE/AL/HL Questions
43.1 Photoelectric effect
Part A Photon energy
1. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q38] ! 5. [HKALE PHY 2006 Q39]

−18 It is known that the energy of a photon of yellow light is about
The energy of a photon is 2.0 × 10 J. To what region of the
electromagnetic spectrum does this photon belong ? 2 eV. The energies of some particles are stated below :
A. infra-red (1) the energy of a photon of red light from a ruby laser
B. visible light (2) the average kinetic energy of an air molecule near room
C. ultra-violet temperature
D. X-ray (3) the kinetic energy of an electron in a cathode-ray tube
arriving at the screen
Use the information to arrange the above in the order of

increasing energy.
2. [HKALE PHY 2012 Q39] A. (2), (1), (3)

Which of the following description about red and blue light is B. (1), (2), (3)
correct ? C. (3), (2), (1)
D. (3), (1), (2)
photons with travels faster in
greater energy ordinary glass
A. red light red light
B. red light blue light
C. blue light red light
D. blue light blue light
6. [HKALE PHY 2003 Q22]
The wavelength of infra-red radiation ranges from about 1 mm
to 1 μm. What is the approximate energy of a photon of red
light ? 43
−19
3. [HKALE PHY 2012 Q41] A. 10 J
−23 −23
The energy of a photon is 10 J. What region of the B. 10 J
−25
electromagnetic spectrum does this photon belong to ? C. 10 J
−30
D. 10 J
A. visible light
B. infra-red
C. microwave
D. X-ray
7. [HKALE PHY 1999 Q28]

Which of the following products is/are measured in joules ?
! 4. [HKALE PHY 2008 Q43] R

(1) Boltzmann constant k (  ) times absolute temperature T
The human eye is most sensitive to green light of wavelength NA
520 nm. Our eyes can detect light of minimum intensity (2) Planck constant h times frequency ν
−13 −2
2.0 × 10 W m . Estimate the minimum number of photons (3) Electronic charge e times potential difference V
entering an eye in one second in order to cause sensation,
assuming that the average diameter of the pupil is 5 mm. A. (1) only
B. (3) only
A. 10 000 C. (1) and (2) only
B. 1 000 D. (2) and (3) only
C. 100 E. (1), (2) and (3)
D. 10
Answers : 1. C (45) 2. C (73) 3. C (68) 4. D (36) 5. A (47) 6. A (61) 7. E

Page 43.2 [E2] 43. Atomic World (MC)
Part B Calculations using Einstein’s photoelectric equation
8. [HKHLE PHY 1990 Q24] ! 12. [HKALE PHY 1995 Q36]

Photons with energy 5 eV are incident on the cathode of a When light of frequency f1 is shone on to a metal surface, the
photocell. The maximum energy of the emitted photoelectrons maximum energy of the electrons emitted is E1. If the same
is 2 eV. When photons of energy 7 eV are incident on the surface is illuminated with light of frequency f2, the maximum
cathode, the stopping potential will be energy of the electrons emitted is E2. The Planck constant is
given by
A. 1 V.
B. 2 V. f 2 E1  f 1 E 2
A.
C. 3 V. f1 f2
D. 4 V.
f 2 E1  f1 E 2
B.
f1 f2
E1  E 2
C.
f1  f2
9. [HKALE PHY 2012 Q40]
E1  E2
When a metal surface is illuminated by light of wavelength D.
f1  f2
400 nm, the emission of photoelectrons can be stopped by a
potential of 0.9 V. Find the work function of the metal. E1  E2
E.
f1  f 2
A. 0.9 eV
B. 2.2 eV
C. 2.9 eV
D. 3.1 eV
13. [HKALE PHY 1989 Q45]

−7
When light of wavelength 4.0 × 10 m is incident on the surface
of a metal, the kinetic energy of the electrons emitted has a
! 10. [HKALE PHY 2010 Q36] −19
maximum value of 3.0 × 10 J. What is the longest wavelength
In photoelectric emission experiments, when monochromatic of light which would cause electrons to be emitted from the
light of wavelength λ is incident on metals X and Y, the metal ?
maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons emitted are
1.0 eV and 0.5 eV respectively. If the incident light is replaced A. 6.6 × 10 m
−7
λ B.
−6
1.0 × 10 m
by that of wavelength , the maximum kinetic energy of the
43 2 C.
−6
2.5 × 10 m
5
photoelectrons emitted from metal X becomes 3.0 eV. What is D. 9.8 × 10 m
the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons emitted from 6
E. 1.5 × 10 m
metal Y ?
A. 1.0 eV
B. 1.5 eV
C. 2.0 eV
D. 2.5 eV ! 14. [HKALE PHY 1986 Q47]
When a beam of light of intensity I and frequency f is shone on
the surface of a metal connected to earth, 200 electrons are
ejected from the surface per second. If a light beam of intensity
2I and frequency 2f is used, the number of electrons ejected
11. [HKALE PHY 2007 Q41] from the metal per second will be
The work function W of five metals are tabulated below.
A. 50.
−19
Metal W / 10 J B. 100.
Caesium 3.4 C. 200.
Barium 4.0 D. 400.
Calcium 4.6 E. 800.
Magnesium 5.9
Beryllium 8.0
If monochromatic light of wavelength 400 nm is incident on

each of the metals, how many of them would exhibit
photoelectric effect ?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
Answers : 8. D 9. B (69) 10. D (48) 11. C (68) 12. E 13. B 14. C

[E2] 43. Atomic World (MC) Page 43.3
15. [HKALE PHY 1984 Q32] Part C Understanding photoelectric effect

For the photoelectric effect, which of the following is the correct
relationship between the energy E of a photon, the work
function w of the surface which it strikes, and the maximum ! 18. [HKHLE PHY 1991 Q25]
kinetic energy K of the emitted photoelectron ?
A. EwK
B. EwK
C. E  K w
D. K  2(w  E )
1
E. w (K  E)
2
When a charged electroscope with a clean zinc plate as a cap is

16. [HKALE PHY 1982 Q31] illuminated by an ultra-violet lamp, the leaf divergence
In an X-ray tube, an accelerating potential V produces X-rays of decreases gradually. When the experiment is repeated with the
−10
minimum wavelength 1.2 × 10 m. In order to produce X-rays lamp closer to the cap of the electroscope, which of the following
−10
of minimum wavelength 0.6 × 10 m, the accelerating potential is/are correct ?
should be
(1) The number of photons reaching the zinc plate per second
1 is increased.
A. V .
4 (2) The leaf divergence of the electroscope decreases faster.
1 (3) Each photon reaching the zinc plate has more energy.
B. V .
2
A. (1) only
C. 2V .
B. (1) and (2) only
D. 2V . C. (2) and (3) only
E. 4V . D. (1), (2) and (3)
! 19. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q17] 43

17. [HKALE PHY 1981 Q29] A light beam consisting of three monochromatic components X,
For the photoelectric effect, which of the following is the correct Y and Z is incident on a glass prism. The wavelength of X is the
relationship between the energy E of a photon, the work longest among the three components, and Z can trigger
function w of the surface which it strikes, and the maximum photoemission from a certain metal but Y cannot. Which ray
kinetic energy K of the emitted photoelectron ? diagram is possible ?
A. EwK A.
B. EwK
C. E  K w
D. K  2(w  E )
1
E. w (K  E)
2
B.
C.
D.
Answers : 15. A 16. D 17. A 18. B 19. A (52)

20. [HKALE PHY 2010 Q35] 23. [HKALE PHY 2001 Q39]
A certain photocell emits electrons when illuminated with
yellow light. This photocell will PROBABLY NOT emit
electrons when illuminated with
A. blue light.
B. green light.
C. red light.
D. ultra-violet radiation.
E. X-rays.
Monochromatic light is incident on a photo-emissive cell
connected to a variable d.c. supply as shown. The
galvanometer shows no deflection. Which of the following can
be a possible reason ?
(1) The temperature of the photo-emissive cell is too low.

(2) The wavelength of the incident light is too long. 24. [HKALE PHY 1997 Q39]
(3) The d.c. voltage applied has been reduced to zero.
A. (1) only
B. (2) only
C. (1) and (3) only
D. (2) and (3) only
A d.c. source is applied to a photocell as shown.

Monochromatic radiation is incident on cathode C so that
21. [HKALE PHY 2004 Q32]
photoelectrons are emitted from the cathode surface. The
A beam of blue light falls on the cathode of a photocell so that
maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons reaching anode
electrons are emitted. The blue beam is then replaced by a
A can be increased by using
yellow one with the same intensity and electrons are also
emitted. What would happen to each of the following physical
(1) a d.c. source of higher voltage
quantities when the blue beam is replaced by the yellow beam ?
(2) monochromatic radiation of longer wavelength
(3) the same monochromatic radiation but of higher intensity
43 K: the maximum kinetic energy of the electrons emitted
I: the magnitude of the photoelectric current
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
K I
C. (1) and (2) only
A. increase remain unchanged
D. (2) and (3) only
B. decrease remain unchanged
E. (1), (2) and (3)
C. decrease increase
D. decrease decrease
25. [HKALE PHY 1996 Q42]

A metal surface is illuminated with monochromatic light so that
22. [HKALE PHY 2002 Q35]
it emits photoelectrons. The maximum kinetic energy of the
A beam of red light falls on one electrode of a photocell and
emitted photoelectrons depends on
electrons are emitted. The red beam is then replaced by a blue
one that has the same intensity. Which of the following
(1) the distance of the metal surface from the light source.
physical quantities would decrease as a result of this change ?
(2) the work function of the metal surface.
(3) the wavelength of the incident monochromatic light.
A. The maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons emitted
B. The energy of each photon striking the electrode
A. (1) only
C. The number of photons striking the electrode per second
B. (3) only
D. The magnitude of the potential difference across the
C. (1) and (2) only
photocell required to reduce the photoelectric current to
D. (2) and (3) only
zero
E. (1), (2) and (3)
Answers : 20. B (60) 21. C (35) 22. C (51) 23. C 24. A 25. D
The work function of a metal is the least energy required to
A. release one mole of electrons from the surface of the metal.

B. bring one mole of electrons from the interior of the metal to
the surface.
C. release one electron from the surface of the metal.
D. bring one electron from the interior of the metal to the
surface.
E. bring one electron from the interior of the metal to the Light falls on the photo-sensitive metal surface of a photocell. A
surface and release it. battery and a sensitive meter are connected to the photocell as
shown. Which of the following statements is correct ?
A. The number of electrons emitted from the metal surface

per second is proportional to the potential difference
between the metal surface and the anode.
27. [HKALE PHY 1991 Q45] B. No current is observed in the meter until after a
In an experiment on the photoelectric effect, a beam of considerable time, when the metal surface has heated up.
monochromatic light is directed onto a metal plate to liberate C. The maximum energy of the electrons emitted is
electrons. Which of the following statements is true ? proportional to the intensity of light.
D. The maximum kinetic energy of the electrons emitted is
A. The velocity of the fastest electrons is directly proportional independent of the particular metal used.
to the frequency of the incident light. E. No current is observed in the meter unless the frequency of
B. The velocity of the fastest electrons is directly proportional light is above a minimum value.
to the intensity of the incident light.
C. The kinetic energy of the fastest electrons is directly
proportional to the frequency of the incident light.
D. The velocity of the fastest electrons is independent of the
intensity of the incident light.
E. The velocity of the fastest electrons is independent of the
type of metal. 31. [HKALE PHY 1985 Q49]
red
light
C microammeter
! 28. [HKALE PHY 1991 Q44]

A 43
X
A beam of monochromatic light falls on a surface. If the
frequency of the light is doubled but the intensity remains battery
unchanged, which of the following statements is/are correct ?
(1) The photon energy is doubled.

(2) The momentum of a photon is doubled. Red light shines on the photoelectric cell C as shown. If the
(3) The number of photons falling on the surface per second is reading of the microammeter is zero, this may be explained by
halved. the fact that
A. (1), (2) and (3) (1) the e.m.f. of the battery is too small.
B. (1) and (2) only (2) the intensity of the light is too low.
C. (2) and (3) only (3) electrode X is made of a material with a too great work
D. (1) only function.
E. (3) only
A. (1), (2) and (3)
B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
29. [HKALE PHY 1990 Q47]
The photoelectric effect occurs when monochromatic light falls
upon a metal surface in a photocell. What happens when the
light intensity increases ?
A. More electrons are emitted with unchanged speed.

B. More electrons are emitted with increased speed.
C. The same number of electrons is emitted with increased
speed.
D. More photons are emitted from the surface.
E. Photons of greater energy are emitted from the surface.
Answers : 26. C 27. D 28. A 29. A 30. E 31. E

32. [HKALE PHY 1983 Q48] Part D Graphical analysis
C
33. [HKHLE PHY 1987 Q23]
E A student studied the photoelectric effect using two different
metals as the emitting surfaces. In each case, he gradually
The above figure shows a photoelectric cell. E is the emitter increased the frequency ν of the incident light and measured the
and C is the collector. The stopping potential for photoelectrons maximum kinetic energy E of the emitted electrons. Which of
depends on the following graphs represents the result ?
(1) the nature of E. A. B.

(2) the distance between E and C.
(3) the surface area of E.
A. (1), (2) and (3)

B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only C. D.
E. (3) only
34. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q40]

The graph shows the variation of the stopping potential VS
required to prevent photoemission from a metal X with the
1
reciprocal of wavelength .
λ
43
1
Which graph (dotted line) shows the variation of VS with for
λ
another metal Y with greater work function ?
A. B.
C. D.
Answers : 32. D 33. D 34. A (54)

In a photoelectric emission experiment using light of a certain In a series of photoelectric emission experiments on a certain
wavelength, the potential difference V required to stop any metal surface, relationships between the following quantities
electrons from reaching the anode is measured for different were investigated.
light intensity I. Which of the following graphs shows how V
depends on I ? f = frequency of incident light
I = intensity of incident light
A. B. i = photoelectric current
K = maximum kinetic energy of photoelectrons
Two of these quantities, when plotted on a graph of y against x,

would give a straight line through the origin.
C. D.
Which of the following correctly identifies x and y ? (Assume

the frequencies used are greater than the threshold frequency.)
x y
A. K i
B. f K
C. f i
D. I K
E. I i
36. [HKALE PHY 2003 Q42]
38. [HKALE PHY 1999 Q40]
43
In an experiment on the photoelectric effect, a student measured
the potential VS required to prevent photoemission when a metal
was illuminated with radiations of varying wavelength λ. His
observations led him to plot the graph as shown, but he omitted
the axes labels. The correct labels for the axes are
The above graph shows the variation in maximum kinetic
energy K of photoelectrons with the frequency f of the incident
x y
radiation on a metallic surface. If radiation of twice the
1 intensity is used, which of the following graphs (dotted line)
A. Vs
λ
shows the variation of K with f ?
B. Vs λ
C. λ Vs A. B.
1
D. Vs
λ
C. D.
E.
Answers : 35. A (46)* 36. A (47) 37. E 38. A

‼ 39. [HKALE PHY 1994 Q37] 41. [HKALE PHY 1982 Q32]
Which of the following graphs best represents the variation of
the maximum velocity v of photoelectrons emitted from a target
with the frequency f of the incident light ?
A. v B. v
A student measures the p.d. V to stop photoelectrons emitted in a

photocell illuminated by monochromatic light of various 0 f 0 f
frequencies f. The resulting points when plotted on a V–f graph
(as shown) do not lie on the solid line drawn from standard C. v D. v
results obtained with a similar photocell. The reason could be
A. the standard results are obtained with light of higher

intensity.
0 f 0 f
B. he has used a voltmeter which has a fixed zero error.
C. he has read the wrong scale on his voltmeter so that his
E. v
readings always double the actual readings.
D. he has connected the variable d.c. supply with the wrong
polarities to the photocell.
E. he has plotted the wavelength of light in place of the
frequency on the horizontal axis.
0 f
42. [HKALE PHY 1980 Q50]

40. [HKALE PHY 1987 Q48]
current
I
II
III
43 _ IV
+ p.d.
The above figure shows the currents observed in a photocell

circuit as a function of the p.d. between the plates of the
photocell when light beams I, II, III and IV are each directed in
turn at the cathode. Which of the beams has the highest
frequency ?
In an experiment with a photocell, readings were taken of the
A. I stopping potential VS for a series of frequencies ν of the incident
B. II light, and the results plotted as a graph of VS against ν are shown
C. III in the diagram below :
D. IV
E. they all have the same frequency
If the emitting electrode is now changed to one of a different

metal, which also gives photoelectrons, the new graph
(1) cuts the VS axis at the same point.

(2) cuts the ν axis at the same point.
(3) has the same slope.
A. (1), (2) and (3)

B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
Answers : 39. B 40. B 41. C 42. E

43.2 Atomic model
Part A Rutherford’s atomic model
43. [HKCEE PHY 1993 Q40] 45. [HKCEE PHY 1982 Q44]
Which of the following is/are correct deduction(s) from the α-particles are scattered by the heavy nucleus of a gold atom.
Geiger-Marsden’s α-particle scattering experiment ? Which of the paths shown in the diagram is/are possible path(s)
for the scattered α-particle ?
(1) α-particles have a strong penetration power.
(2) Most of the space in an atom is empty.
(3) All the charged particles of an atom are concentrated in a
tiny nucleus.
A. (2) only
B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (1) and (3) only
E. (1), (2) and (3) A. (1) only
B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (2) and (3) only
E. (1), (2) and (3)
44. [HKCEE PHY 1991 Q40]

An alpha particle is scattered by a heavy nucleus X. Which of
the following paths of the alpha particle is IMPOSSIBLE ?
46. [HKHLE PHY 1987 Q25]
A.
B.
The diagram above shows the path of an α-particle passing close 43

to a nucleus N. If the kinetic energy of the particle is E, which
of the following conditions must lead to an increase in the angle
φ?
C. E d
A. increases increases
B. decreases increases
C. increases decreases
D. decreases decreases
D.
47. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q42]
E.
In the above figure, X is a heavy nucleus. Four α-particles P, Q,

R and S of the same kinetic energy are travelling in the same
direction when they are far away from X. P is deflected along
the dotted curve as shown. Which of the trajectories for Q, R
and S drawn approximately to scale in the figure is/are not
possible ?
A. R only
B. S only
C. Q and R only
D. Q and S only
Answers : 43. A 44. E 45. A 46. D* 47. B (52)

gold
foil
P Q
 R
A thin gold foil is bombarded by a beam of α-particles and they

are scattered as shown. This experimental result provides In an experiment on α-particle scattering, α-particles are
information about directed onto a gold foil, and detectors are placed at positions P,
Q and R as shown. What is the distribution of α-particles as
A. the energy level of electrons in a gold atom. recorded at P, Q and R respectively ?
B. the binding energy of the nucleus of a gold atom.
C. the size of the nucleus of a gold atom relative to that of a P Q R
gold atom. A. all none none
D. the existence of neutrons in the nucleus of a gold atom. B. none none all
C. most some none
D. most some few
E. few some most
‼ 49. [HKALE PHY 1993 Q47]
The diagram shows an alpha particle ‘colliding’ head-on with an 53. [HKALE PHY 1983 Q50]
atomic nucleus. At P, the alpha particle is at the closest distance When alpha particles are fired in a beam at a thin sheet of gold,
r0 from the nucleus. Which of the following statements is/are they are scattered through a wide range of angles, from zero to
correct ? 180° from the incident beam. This experiment shows that the
gold atom has
(1) At P, the electric potential energy of the system is
maximum. (1) electrons in different orbits.
−14
(2) r0 is of the order 10 m. (2) a volume consisting mainly of empty space.
(3) r0 gives an upper limit for the sum of the radii of the alpha (3) a small, dense, charged nucleus.
particle and the nucleus.
A. (1), (2) and (3)
43 A. (1) only B. (1) and (2) only
B. (3) only C. (2) and (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only D. (1) only
D. (2) and (3) only E. (3) only
E. (1), (2) and (3)
50. [HKALE PHY 1992 Q47]

Which of the following conclusions could NOT be deduced from 54. [HKALE PHY 1982 Q50]
Rutherford’s scattering experiment ? In the Rutherford experiment on alpha particle scattering, an
alpha particle strikes a thin metal foil X and is deflected through
(1) Alpha particles are helium nuclei. an angle θ.
(2) There are discrete energy levels in an atom.
(3) The positive charge in an atom is confined to a very small 
region.  
A. (1), (2) and (3)

B. (1) and (2) only X
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only Which of the following statements is/are true ?
E. (3) only
(1) θ cannot be greater than 90°.
(2) The closer the alpha particle approaches to a nucleus, the
greater is the value of θ.
51. [HKALE PHY 1986 Q50] (3) For the same approach path, θ is larger for slower alpha
Which of the following best represent the order of magnitude of particles than for faster ones.
the radius of a nucleus ?
A. (1), (2) and (3)
−2
A. 10 m B. (1) and (2) only
−6
B. 10 m C. (2) and (3) only
−10
C. 10 m D. (1) only
−14
D. 10 m E. (3) only
−18
E. 10 m
Answers : 48. C (57) 49. E 50. B 51. D 52. E 53. C 54. C

Part B Bohr’s model of hydrogen atom
55. [HKHLE PHY 1985 Q25] ‼ 58. [HKALE PHY 2011 Q37]
From the Bohr theory of the hydrogen atom, the ratio of the An electron of negligible initial speed is accelerated through a
radius of the orbit of the electron in the first excited state to that p.d. of 12.0 V. The electron then undergoes inelastic collision
in the ground state is with a gaseous atom at its ground state. As a result, the electron
loses all its kinetic energy in the collision and the atom is excited
A. to an energy level of −3.4 eV. Find the ionization potential of
2.
this atom.
B. 2.
C. 2 2 . A. 8.6 V
D. 4. B. 12.0 V
C. 15.4 V
D. 18.8 V
56. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q39]

A hypothetical hydrogen-like atom has energy levels with values ! 59. [HKALE PHY 2011 Q38]
given by :
14.4
E eV where n = 1, 2, 3, ...
n2
The atom in the ground state can be excited or ionized when it

collides with
(1) a photon of energy 12 eV

(2) a photon of energy 15 eV In a hydrogen atom, when the electron absorbs a photon of
(3) an electron of kinetic energy 13 eV wavelength λ1, it can jump from n = 1 state to n = 2 state. When
the electron absorbs a photon of wavelength λ2, it can jump from
A. (1) only n = 1 state to n = 3 state. If the electron changes from n = 3 state
B. (3) only to n = 2 state, what is the wavelength of the photon emitted from
C. (1) and (2) only the hydrogen atom ?
D. (2) and (3) only
A. λ2  λ1 43
B. λ1  λ2
λ1 λ2
C.
λ2  λ1
! 57. [HKALE PHY 2012 Q43] λ1 λ2
D.
λ1  λ2
! 60. [HKALE PHY 2009 Q41]
The figure shows three adjacent energy levels of a hydrogen

atom. Electron transitions between these energy levels can
emit radiations of three different wavelengths. Two of them
are of wavelengths λ1 and λ2 as shown, the wavelength of the
third one is
The diagram shows the electron transitions within an excited
A. λ1  λ2 . atom. Light of wavelengths λ1, λ2 and λ3 are emitted, where
λ1 > λ2 > λ3, Deduce the relationship between λ1, λ2 and λ3.
B. λ2  λ1 .
λ1 λ2 A. λ1  λ2  λ3
C. .
λ1  λ2
λ1  λ3
λ1 λ2 B. λ2 
D. . 2
λ2  λ1
λ2 λ3
C. λ1 
λ2  λ3
λ1 λ2
D. λ3 
λ1  λ2
Answers : 55. D 56. D (18)* 57. C (66) 58. C (64) 59. D (60) 60. D (55)
Which of the following electron transitions between energy
levels in an atom will emit electromagnetic radiation of the
highest frequency ?
A. n = 2 to n = 1
B. n = 3 to n = 2
C. n = 4 to n = 3
D. n = 4 to n = 2
E. n = 5 to n = 2
65. [HKALE PHY 2000 Q40]
The figure shows the possible energy levels of a mercury atom.

A free electron with kinetic energy 8.4 eV collides with a
mercury atom, which is in its ground state. The change in
kinetic energy of the mercury atom in the collision may be
neglected. What is/are the possible value(s) for the kinetic
energy of the electron after collision?
The energy levels of a certain atom are as shown. Which of the
(1) 0.7 eV following may undergo an inelastic collision with the atom ?
(2) 2.9 eV
(3) 3.5 eV (1) an electron with kinetic energy 3E
(2) a photon with energy 2E
A. (1) only (3) a photon with energy 3E
B. (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only A. (1) only
D. (1) and (3) only B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (2) and (3) only
E. (1), (2) and (3)
43
62. [HKALE PHY 2004 Q33]
The ionization energy for a hydrogen atom in ground state is
13.6 eV. If the atom is in the first excited state, the energy for ! 66. [HKALE PHY 1999 Q33]
ionizing it should be The following are energy values for hydrogen.
A. 3.4 eV X mean kinetic energy of hydrogen gas molecules at room

B. 4.5 eV temperature
C. 6.8 eV Y ionization energy of a hydrogen atom
D. 10.2 eV Z photon energy of a particular line in the visible emission
spectrum of hydrogen
Which of the following shows the correct ascending order (the

least first) of these energy values ?
! 63. [HKALE PHY 2002 Q37]

A. X<Z<Y
A hydrogen atom absorbs a photon of wavelength λ such that the
B. X<Y<Z
electron in the ground state (energy level corresponding to n = 1)
C. Y<Z<X
is brought to an excited state (energy level corresponding to
D. Z<Y<X
n = 3). What is the maximum wavelength of a photon that can
E. Z<X<Y
cause ionization of a hydrogen atom in the ground state ?
8λ
A.
9
9λ 67. [HKALE PHY 1999 Q34]
B.
8 When an electron in an atom falls from an excited state to the
3λ ground state, which of the following forms of radiation is NOT
C.
2 emitted ?
2λ
D. A. infra-red
3
B. gamma-ray
C. ultra-violet
D. visible light
E. X-rays
Answers : 61. D (68) 62. A (48) 63. A (46) 64. A 65. C 66. A 67. B
When an electron in an atom undergoes a transition from a
−9
higher energy level to a lower one, the time taken is about 10 s.
Which of the following statements about the transition is/are
correct ?
(1) Electromagnetic radiation is emitted during the transition.

(2) The length of the wave train from such a transition is about
0.3 m.
(3) The energy of the photon emitted depends on the energy
difference between the two levels.
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (2) and (3) only
E. (1), (2) and (3)
The diagram shows some energy levels (drawn to scale of a

certain atom). Transition X results in the emission of a photon
of wavelength 600 nm. Which transition (P to T) would result
in the emission of a photon of wavelength 300 nm ?
71. [HKALE PHY 1994 Q38]
In a hydrogen atom, electron transitions from the first excited
A. P
state to the ground state give photons of frequency f. If an
B. Q
electron falls from the second excited state to the first one, the
C. R
frequency of the photon emitted would be
D. S
E. T
A. 0.19f.
B. 0.44f.
C. 0.84f.
D. 1.19f.
E. 2.25f.
69. [HKALE PHY 1995 Q39]
43
! 72. [HKALE PHY 1994 Q41]
When a radioactive atom emits γ-rays, which of the following
statements about the atom is/are correct ?
(1) Its mass number remains unchanged.

(2) The energy of the atomic nucleus decreases.
(3) An electron falls from a higher energy level to a lower one.
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
A hypothetical atom has only four energy levels as represented C. (1) and (2) only
above. It can change from any one level to any other. Which D. (2) and (3) only
of the following statements about this hypothetical atom is E. (1), (2) and (3)
INCORRECT ?
A. The most stable state of the atom corresponds to the level

−12 eV.
B. If the atom is at the level −4 eV, it can absorb a photon of
energy 4 eV. 73. [HKALE PHY 1993 Q44]
C. If the atom is −4 eV, it can emit a photon of energy 8 eV. The ionization potential of a hydrogen atom is 13.6 V. What is
D. If the atom is at the level −12 eV and collides with an the minimum excitation potential of a ground state hydrogen
electron of kinetic energy 10 eV, it can change to the level atom ?
−4 eV.
E. If the atom is at the level −12 eV and collides with two A. 1.9 V
photons, each of energy 4 eV, it can change to the level B. 3.4 V
−4 eV. C. 6.8 V
D. 10.2 V
E. 12.8 V
Answers : 68. B 69. E 70. E 71. A 72. C (32) 73. D

! 74. [HKALE PHY 1990 Q49] ! 77. [HKALE PHY 1987 Q47]
n=4
n=3
n=2
n =1
The diagram shows the energy levels of a certain atom. When
an electron changes energy from 4E to E, a photon of wavelength The figure shows the four lowest energy levels of a hydrogen
λ is emitted. Which of the following wavelengths of photons atom. The hydrogen atom is excited from ground state to the
could be produced by other transitions between the energy energy level n = 3 when an electron collides inelastically with it.
levels shown ? What is the minimum energy required for the electron to do
this ?
λ 2λ
A. and (ionization potential of hydrogen = 13.6 V)
3 3
λ
B. and 3λ A. 4.9 eV
3
B. 12.1 eV
2λ 3λ
C. and C. 12.8 eV
3 2
D. 15.1 eV
2λ E. 20.0 eV
D. and 3λ
3
3λ
E. and 3λ
2
78. [HKALE PHY 1986 Q46]
75. [HKALE PHY 1990 Q50]

In a collision between an electron and an atom which leads to
excitation of the atom without ionization, which of the following
is/are correct ?
43
(1) An orbital electron escapes from the nucleus
(2) An orbital electron acquires energy.
(3) The energy transferred appears later as electromagnetic
radiation.
A. (1), (2) and (3)

B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
76. [HKALE PHY 1989 Q43]

An atom emits light of wavelengths 122 nm and 103 nm when
one of its electrons returns to its ground state from its first and
second excited states, respectively. The wavelength of light
emitted when the electron passes from the second excited state
to the first excited state is In the diagram above, E1 and E  represent (to scale) the
energy levels of a hydrogen atom in its ground state and the
A. 19 nm. ionized state, respectively. Which of the drawn lines
B. 112 nm. represents the energy level of the atom in its first excited state ?
C. 113 nm.
D. 225 nm. A. I
E. 661 nm. B. II
C. III
D. IV
E. V
Answers : 74. E 75. C 76. E 77. B 78. D

79. [HKALE PHY 1985 Q47] ‼ 82. [HKALE PHY 1981 Q30]
The ionization potential of a hydrogen atom is 13.6 eV. Which An electron of mass m and charge e, is accelerated by a potential
of the following energy levels is/are possible for the atom ? V, then strikes an atom, exciting it from its ground state to a
higher energy state. The electron is scattered with speed u, and
(1) −1.51 eV the excited atom subsequently decays back to the ground state
(2) −3.40 eV with the emission of a photon of frequency f. If h is the Planck
(3) −6.80 eV constant, the value of u is
A. (1), (2) and (3) A. eV  hf .

B. (1) and (2) only
B. 2(eV  hf ) .
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only 2(eV  hf )
C. .
E. (3) only m
eV  hf
D. .
m
2(eV  hf )
E. .
m
80. [HKALE PHY 1984 Q31]

The ionization energy of an atom in its ground state is
A. the energy required to separate all the electrons from the

remainder of the atom.
B. the maximum energy required to separate one electron
from the remainder of the atom.
C. the minimum energy required to separate one electron
from the remainder of the atom.
D. the minimum energy required to add one electron to the
atom.
E. the minimum energy required for an electron to change its
state while at the same time remaining attached to the
nucleus.
43
81. [HKALE PHY 1983 Q47]

W
The allowed energy levels for an atom are En   , where W
n2
is a constant and n is any positive integer. The frequency of a
photon corresponding to the energy transition from n = m + 1 to
n=m
(1) is directly proportional to W.

(2) decreases as m increases.
(3) increases as the temperature increases.
A. (1), (2) and (3)

B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
Answers : 79. B 80. C 81. B 82. E

Part C Atomic spectra
The diagram shows the energy levels available to the outer

The figure shows the four lowest energy levels of a hydrogen
electron in an atom of a certain element drawn approximately to
atom. It is known that the wavelength of visible light ranges
scale. λ1, λ2, λ3 and λ4 denote the respective wavelengths of the
from 400 nm to 700 nm and the energy of a yellow light photon
emitted photons corresponding to the electron transitions
(about 600 nm) is 2 eV. If electrons having kinetic energy of
indicated. Which line spectrum shown on a linear scale of
12.5 eV are used to bombard a large number of hydrogen atoms,
wavelength is correct ?
how many spectral lines in the visible region can be obtained
subsequently ?
A. 0
A.
B. 1
C. 2
D. 3
B.
86. [HKALE PHY 2007 Q40]
C.
43
D.
The above figure, drawn to scale, represents the energy levels

for an electron in a certain atom. The transition from E3 to E1
gives a green line (in the spectrum). Which of the following
transitions may give a red line ?
A. E4 to E1
84. [HKALE PHY 2009 Q42]
B. E4 to E2
Dark lines found in the solar continuous emission spectrum
C. E3 to E2
correspond to the characteristic spectral lines of certain
D. E2 to E1
elements. The formation of these dark lines within the visible
spectrum is due to the absorption of certain wavelengths by
A. atoms of these elements in the Sun’s interior.

B. atoms of these elements in the Sun’s atmosphere.
87. [HKALE PHY 2005 Q43]
C. free electrons in the Sun’s interior.
Which of the following descriptions about spectra is/are correct?
D. free electrons in the Sun’s atmosphere.
(1) A tungsten-filament lamp emits a continuous spectrum of
light.
(2) An electrical discharge through a gas at low pressure
produces a line spectrum.
(3) A gas produces an emission spectrum at high temperatures.
A. (1) and (2) only

B. (1) and (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)
Answers : 83. C (62) 84. B (68) 85. B (27)* 86. D (56)* 87. D (34)
Which of the following phenomena supports the fact that a The transition of electrons between three energy levels in a
nucleus is made up of other fundamental constituents ? particular atom gives rise to three spectral lines. The shortest
and longest wavelengths of those spectral lines are λ1 and λ2
A. emission of electrons when a metal is illuminated by light respectively. The wavelength of the other spectral line is
B. the emission of line spectrum by atoms
C. the scattering of α-particles from a gold foil λ1  λ2
A. .
D. the decay of radioactive substances 2
B. λ2  λ1 .
λ1 λ2
C. .
λ1  λ2
1
 1 1 
D.   .
λ  λ 
89. [HKALE PHY 2004 Q34]  1 2 
Which of the following descriptions about spectra is/are E. λ1 λ2 .

correct ?
(1) The emission spectrum from a very hot liquid is

continuous.
(2) The dark lines in the solar spectrum illustrate that the
elements corresponding to these dark lines are absent from
the Sun.
93. [HKALE PHY 1993 Q45]
(3) The dark lines in the solar spectrum are due to the solar
The spectrum of sunlight has dark lines in it. Which of the
radiation being absorbed by the elements in the earth’s
following statements concerning these dark lines is/are correct ?
atmosphere corresponding to these dark lines.
(1) They are due to the absorption of certain wavelengths of

A. (1) only
light in the sun’s atmosphere.
B. (3) only
(2) Light absorbed in the sun’s atmosphere is re-emitted but in
C. (1) and (2) only
all directions.
D. (2) and (3) only
light in the earth’s atmosphere.
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (2) and (3) only
43
‼ 90. [HKALE PHY 2003 Q41]
E. (1), (2) and (3)
The second line in the Lyman series (corresponding to the
K-shell) of the hydrogen spectrum has a wavelength of 102 nm.
What is the wavelength of the first line in the series ?
A. 93.5 nm
B. 121 nm
C. 136 nm
! 94. [HKALE PHY 1991 Q47]
D. 153 nm
Electron transitions occur in an atom resulting in the emission of
the following light wavelengths :
from level C to level A : 600 nm

from level B to level A : 500 nm
Which of the following statement is/are correct ?

91. [HKALE PHY 2001 Q34]
The concept that “energy change occurs in discrete and not
(1) Level A has a lower energy than both levels B and C.
continuous amounts” is NOT REQUIRED to explain
(2) Level C has a higher energy than level B.
(3) The wavelength of light emitted from the transition
A. absorption line spectrum.
between C and B is 100 nm.
B. nuclear fission.
C. emission of γ-rays in radioactive decay.
A. (1), (2) and (3)
D. photoelectric effect.
B. (1) and (2) only
E. X-ray line spectrum emitted in X-ray tubes.
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
Answers : 88. D (39)* 89. A (31)* 90. B (32)* 91. B 92. D 93. C 94. D
95. [HKALE PHY 1988 Q43] ‼ 97. [HKALE PHY 1987 Q50]
Which of the following experiments provide direct evidence for
the existence of energy levels in atoms ?
A. the Chadwick experiment

B. the Franck-Hertz experiment
C. the Geiger-Marsden experiment
D. the Millikan experiment
E. none of the above
! 98. [HKALE PHY 1985 Q35]
X Y
The diagram below shows the first five energy levels of an atom.
Which of the spectra below best corresponds to the transitions The figure above shows two adjacent lines in the spectrum of a
hot gas. Line X is brighter than line Y because
indicated ?
A. line X has a higher frequency.

B. line X has a greater wavelength.
C. line X originates in the hotter part of the gas.
A. D. for line X, more electrons undergo transitions between the
two states involved in the emission.
E. for line X, electrons undergo transitions between two states
of greater energy difference.
B.
! 99. [HKALE PHY 1985 Q48]

43 C.
The photons emitted by a laser
(1) are of same frequency.

(2) travel in the same direction.
D. (3) are in phase.
A. (1), (2) and (3)

B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
E.
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
100. [HKALE PHY 1985 Q50]

Which of the following phenomena can provide direct evidence
96. [HKALE PHY 1989 Q42] for the existence of discrete electron energy levels in atoms ?
When a beam of white light passes through iodine vapour, the
spectrum of the emergent light shows dark lines. Which of the (1) electron diffraction
following statements is/are correct ? (2) photoelectric emission
(3) the spectrum of light from a sodium lamp
(1) The iodine vapour absorbs from the light all frequencies
except those which it emits. A. (1), (2) and (3)
(2) The iodine vapour emits less energy than it absorbs. B. (1) and (2) only
(3) The iodine vapour absorbs the same frequencies as it emits. C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
A. (1), (2) and (3) E. (3) only
B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
Answers : 95. E 96. E 97. B 98. D 99. A 100. E

101. [HKALE PHY 1980 Q31]

What kind of spectrum is observed when the radiation from a
red-hot wire is analyzed by a spectrometer ?
A. continuous emission spectrum

B. continuous absorption spectrum
C. band emission spectrum
D. line emission spectrum
E. line absorption spectrum
‼ 102. [HKALE PHY 1980 Q42]

In an experiment on thermonuclear fusion, the temperature of
helium is so high that its spectral lines are noticeably broadened.
This is because the high temperature
(1) increases the speed of the helium atoms.

(2) increases the energy of emitted photons.
(3) reduces the resolution of the spectrometer.
A. (1), (2) and (3)

B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
43
Answers : 101. A 102. E

43.3 Nano-world
Part A Wave–particle duality
In which of the following calculations is it necessary to use the
Planck constant ?
(1) Finding the momentum of an electron from its kinetic

energy
(2) Finding the energy of a photon emitted as a result of the
transition of an electron between two energy levels in an
In an evacuated tube, a beam of electrons is accelerated through
atom
a potential difference V and strikes a graphite sheet X. Rings
(3) Finding the maximum kinetic energy of photoelectrons
are seen on a fluorescent screen positioned behind X. Which of
from the wavelength of incident radiation
the following statements is/are correct ?
A. (1) only
(1) Sheet X acts as a diffraction grating.
B. (3) only
(2) The rings indicate the wave nature of electrons.
C. (1) and (2) only
(3) When V is increased, the rings are wider apart.
D. (2) and (3) only
A. (1), (2) and (3)

B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
‼ 104. [HKALE PHY 1991 Q50]
Which of the following illustrates atomic resonance ?
(1) Electron diffraction

(2) Photoelectric emission
108. [HKALE PHY 1986 Q45]
(3) Fraunhofer dark lines in the sun’s spectrum
thin
A. (1), (2) and (3)
copper
B. (1) and (2) only
foil
C. (2) and (3) only
43 D. (1) only fluorescent
E. (3) only screen
electron
beam
In order to observe a diffraction ring pattern on the screen in

105. [HKALE PHY 1989 Q50] the arrangement shown above, which of the following
If the kinetic energy of an electron is 10.0 eV, what is the conditions must be met ?
wavelength of the de Broglie wave associated with it ?
A. The copper foil must be a single crystal specimen.
−16
A. 4.1 × 10 m B. The copper foil must be of uniform thickness.
−10
B. 3.9 × 10 m C. The electron beam must strike the foil at normal incidence.
−10
C. 5.5 × 10 m D. The electron beam must be polarized.
14
D. 2.3 × 10 m E. The electron beam must be approximately monoenergetic.
14
E. 4.5 × 10 m
109. [HKALE PHY 1982 Q33]

If h is the Planck constant and c is the speed of light in a vacuum,
106. [HKALE PHY 1988 Q49] photons of wavelength λ have momentum p. Which of the
If electron A has twice the kinetic energy of electron B, what is following expressions is dimensionally correct for p ?
the ratio of the de Broglie wavelength of electron A to that of
electron B ? A. hλ
h
A. 1:2 B.
λ
B. 1: 2 hc
C.
C. 1:1 λ
hλ
D. 2 :1 D.
c
E. 2:1 E. hcλ
Answers : 103. B (30) 104. E 105. B 106. B 107. B 108. E 109. B

Part B Observing at atomic scale
‼ 110. [HKCEE PHY 1993 Q15] ‼ 114. [HKALE PHY 1984 Q37]
A microscope is used to view a small object. Which of the
following statements is/are true ? d screen
(1) The objective and the eyepiece of the microscope are
convex lenses. p
(2) The image formed by the objective is real.
(3) The image formed by the eyepiece is magnified.
R
A. (2) only
B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only A beam of electrons, travelling with uniform momentum p, is
D. (1) and (3) only incident on a narrow slit of width d. A fluorescent screen is
E. (1), (2) and (3) placed at a distance R from the opening. What is the width of
the central maximum of the diffraction pattern observed on the
screen ? (h = Planck constant)
d
A.
111. [HKHLE PHY 1990 Q22] 2
2d2
B.
R
2h
C.
p
2hd
D.
A positive charge is accelerated by applying a potential Rp
difference between the electrodes inside a vacuum tube. The
2hR
increase of the kinetic energy of the positive charge depends on E.
dp
(1) the mass of the positive charge.

(2) the potential difference between the electrodes.
(3) the quantity of charge that it carries.
A. (1) and (2) only 43

B. (1) and (3) only ‼ 115. [HKALE PHY 1981 Q46]
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3) E eyepiece
focal length f e
‼ 112. [HKALE PHY 2002 Q32]

−15
To produce an X-ray photon of energy 3.6 × 10 J, the
bombarding electrons in the X-ray tube must be accelerated
through a potential difference of at least
O objective
A. 11.3 kV. focal length f o
B. 22.5 kV. A
C. 28.8 kV.
D. 57.6 kV.
The diagram represents a microscope with the object at A. The

image of A in the objective is formed at B. Which of the
following statements is correct ?
‼ 113. [HKALE PHY 1985 Q40]
In a compound microscope, (1) AO is less than fo.
(2) BE is less than fe.
(1) the final image produced is virtual. (3) The image at B is real.
(2) the final image produced is erect.
(3) the focal lengths of both the objective and the eyepiece A. (1), (2) and (3)
must be long in order to produce high magnification. B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
A. (1), (2) and (3) D. (1) only
B. (1) and (2) only E. (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1) only
E. (3) only
Answers : 110. E 111. C 112. B (88) 113. D 114. E 115. C

Part 2 HKDSE Questions

Unless otherwise specified, all questions come from Physics or Integrated Science Paper 2.
“” = out of current HKDSE syllabus
Sample Paper
1. [HKDSE PHY Sample Paper E2 Q1] 4. [HKDSE PHY Sample Paper E2 Q4]
Which of these conclusions could NOT be deduced from
Rutherford’s scattering experiment ?
(1) Alpha particles are helium nuclei.

(2) There are discrete energy levels in an atom.
(3) The positive charge in an atom is confined to a very small
region.
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
The energy levels of a certain atom are as shown. Which of
C. (1) and (2) only
these may undergo an inelastic collision with the atom ?
D. (2) and (3) only
(1) an electron with kinetic energy 3E

A. (2) only
B. (3) only
2. [HKDSE PHY Sample Paper E2 Q2]
C. (1) and (2) only
The equivalent wavelength of a photon of energy 10 eV is
D. (1), (2) and (3)
A. 213 nm.
B. 124 nm.
C. 25.6 nm.
D. 19.7 nm.
43 5. [HKDSE PHY Sample Paper E2 Q5]

In an experiment on the photoelectric effect, a beam of
monochromatic light is directed onto a metal plate to liberate
electrons. The velocity of the fastest photoelectrons emitted is

A. directly proportional to the frequency of the incident light.
The ionization potential of a hydrogen atom is 13.6 V. How
B. directly proportional to the intensity of the incident light.
much energy is required to excite an electron from the ground
C. independent of the nature of metal.
state to the first excited state in a hydrogen atom ?
D. independent of the intensity of the incident light.
A. 10.2 eV
B. 6.8 eV
C. 3.4 eV
D. 1.9 eV

The work function W of five metals are tabulated below.
−19
Metal W / 10 J
Caesium 3.4
Barium 4.0
Calcium 4.6
Magnesium 5.9
Beryllium 8.0
If monochromatic light of wavelength 400 nm is incident on

each of the metals, how many of them would exhibit
photoelectric effect ?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
Answers : [Sample Paper] 1. C 2. B 3. A 4. C 5. D 6. C 7. D 8. B 9. C


Which of the following statements is/are correct ?
(1) Photoelectric effect is an evidence that light possesses

particle nature.
(2) Electron diffraction suggests that electrons can behave like
waves.
(3) The line spectrum of atomic hydrogen suggests that the
atom has discrete energy levels.
A. (1) and (2) only

B. (2) and (3) only
C. (1) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)

Graphite is a conductor because of the ‘delocalization’ of
electrons. Where are these delocalized electrons ?
A. formed on the surface of graphite

B. formed within the carbon layers of graphite
C. formed homogeneously within graphite
D. formed in a ‘sea’ of positive ions
43
9. [HKDSE INT SCI Sample Paper Q25]
A solar powered calculator can barely function if it is
illuminated by a 100 W filament lamp at a distance of 3 m away.
What is the maximum distance from a 60 W filament lamp for
this solar powered calculator to function ?
(Assume that there is no other light source around.)
A. 1.50 m
B. 1.80 m
C. 2.32 m
D. insufficient data for calculation
Practice Paper
1. [HKDSE PHY Practice Paper E2 Q1] 5. [HKDSE PHY Practice Paper E2 Q5]
Which of the following can be concluded from the Rutherford A beam of electrons is incident on a thin film of crystal. A
scattering experiment ? pattern of bright and dark rings is observed on a fluorescent
screen. Which physical phenomenon explains the formation of
(1) The nucleus of an atom consists of protons and neutrons. the pattern ?
(2) The nucleus of an atom is very small compared to the size
of the atom.
(3) Electromagnetic waves emitted from atoms of gases are of
specific frequencies.
A. (2) only
B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (1) and (3) only
A. Photoelectric effect
B. Electron diffraction
C. Ionization of atoms
D. Lotus effect
2. [HKDSE PHY Practice Paper E2 Q2]
The ionization energy for a hydrogen atom in ground state is
13.6 eV. A photon of energy 4.53 eV strikes a hydrogen atom in
ground state. The hydrogen atom will
A. not be excited to a higher energy level.

B. be excited to the first excited state.
C. be excited to the third excited state.
Which of the following statements about different microscopes
D. be ionized.
is/are correct ?
(1) The resolution of an optical microscope will increase if red

light instead of blue light is used to illuminate the specimen.
(2) A transmission electron microscope (TEM) uses magnetic
43 3. [HKDSE PHY Practice Paper E2 Q3]
field to focus the electron beam.
(3) Only specimens that conduct electricity can be studied by a
The wavelength of the radiation emitted when an electron of an
th scanning tunnelling microscope (STM).
atom drops from the j excited state of energy Ej to a lower
th
k excited state of energy Ek is
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
E j  Ek
A. . C. (1) and (2) only
h D. (2) and (3) only
E j  Ek
B. .
hc
hc
C. .
E j  Ek
hc hc
D.  .
Ej Ek 7. [HKDSE PHY Practice Paper E2 Q7]
Estimate the wavelength of electrons when they are accelerated
in a transmission electron microscope (TEM) with a voltage of
76 kV.
−12
A. 2.4 × 10 m
−12
4. [HKDSE PHY Practice Paper E2 Q4] B. 4.5 × 10 m
−10
The de Broglie wavelength of a particle at speed v is λ. If the C. 1.4 × 10 m
−9
speed of the particle is doubled, the de Broglie wavelength is D. 9.6 × 10 m
λ
A. .
4
λ
B. .
2
C. λ.
D. 2λ .
Answers : [Practice Paper] 1. A 2. A 3. C 4. B 5. B 6. D 7. B 8. D 9. B


Which of the following are possible means by which nano
particles could get into the human body ?
(1) The skin having direct contact with nano particles.

(2) Inhaling nano particles into the lungs while breathing.
(3) Ingesting food containing nano particles.
A. (1) and (2) only

B. (1) and (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)
9. [HKDSE INT SCI Practice Paper Q28]

A microwave oven operates at a power of 650 W with
9
microwaves of frequency 2.45 × 10 Hz. What is the number of
photons emitted by the microwave oven per second ?
20
A. 9.47 × 10
26
B. 4.00 × 10
39
C. 5.69 × 10
45
D. 2.40 × 10
43
2012
1. [HKDSE PHY 2012 E2 Q1] 4. [HKDSE PHY 2012 E2 Q4]

From the classical point of view what are the limitations of In studying the photoelectric effect, a certain metal is
Rutherford’s model of the atom ? illuminated by ultraviolet radiation of different frequency f and
the maximum kinetic energy K of the photoelectrons emitted is
(1) Atoms would continuously emit electromagnetic radiation. measured. The graph is plotted as shown.
(2) Atoms would be unstable and they would collapse
eventually.
(3) The atomic emission spectrum would be continuous instead
of discrete.
A. (1) and (2) only

B. (1) and (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)
What would happen to the graph if ultraviolet radiation of

higher intensity is shone on the same metal ?
slope of the graph intercept of the graph

on the horizontal axis
2. [HKDSE PHY 2012 E2 Q2] A. smaller unchanged
Which of the following statements about spectra is/are correct ? B. larger unchanged
C. unchanged unchanged
(1) A tungsten-filament lamp emits a continuous spectrum. D. unchanged smaller
(2) A line absorption spectrum can be obtained when a
tungsten-filament lamp is viewed through some hydrogen
gas.
(3) The emission spectrum of hydrogen consists of dark lines
on a bright background.
A. (1) and (2) only 5. [HKDSE PHY 2012 E2 Q5]

B. (1) and (3) only According to Bohr’s model of the hydrogen atom, the ratio of the
C. (2) and (3) only radius of the electron’s orbit in the first excited state to that in
43 D. (1), (2) and (3) the second excited state is
A. 1:2 .
B. 1: 2 .
C. 4 :9 .
D. 2:3 .
3. [HKDSE PHY 2012 E2 Q3]
Photons with energy 7 eV are incident on the cathode of a
photocell. The maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons
emitted is 4 eV. When photons of energy 4 eV are incident on
the cathode, the stopping potential will be
A. 0 V. 6. [HKDSE PHY 2012 E2 Q6]

B. 1 V. Which of the following has the shortest de Broglie wavelength ?
C. 2 V.
D. 3 V. −1
A. A 60 kg person walking at 0.8 m s
−1
B. A bird of mass 0.3 kg flying at 20 m s
−1
C. A basketball of mass 0.6 kg moving at 12 m s
−1
D. A bullet of mass 0.05 kg moving at 800 m s
Answers : [2012] 1. D (34) 2. A (47) 3. B (51) 4. C (64) 5. C (53) 6. A (75) 7. B (60) 8. D (47) 9. C (46)

Which of the following properties could explain the Lotus
effect ?
A. water-attractive property
B. water-repelling property
C. wave-particle duality of matter
D. high electrical conductivity

If substance is reduced in size to become particles of about
10 nm large, which of the following properties of these particles
would differe from those of the substance in bulk form ?
(1) optical
(2) mechanical
(3) electrical
A. (1) and (2) only

B. (1) and (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)
9. [HKDSE INT SCI 2012 Q14] 43

In the α particle scattering experiment conducted by Rutherford
in 1910, he found that about 1 in 8000 α particles hitting the gold
foil was deflected through a very large angle or bounced back.
Which of the following properties of an atom CANNOT be
inferred from the experimental findings ?
A. The nucleus of an atom has a very high density.

B. The nucleus of an atom carries positive charges.
C. The nucleus of an atom is composed of protons and
neutrons.
D. The size of the nucleus is extremely small as compared to
that of an atom.
2013

In an α-particle scattering experiment, the electrons of the atoms When an electron in a hydrogen atom falls from an excited state
have negligible effects on the path of the incident α-particles. to the ground state, which of the following forms of radiation
The most probable reason is that will NOT be emitted ?
A. electrons are so small that α-particles do not collide with A. γ-radiation

them. B. ultra-violet radiation
B. electrons are uniformly distributed inside an atom, thus the C. infra-red radiation
resultant force on an α-particle is zero. D. visible light
C. there is no electrical interaction between electrons and
α-particles.
D. the kinetic energy change of α-particles colliding with
electrons is negligible.

According to classical electromagnetic theory, what deductions
about Rutherford’s atomic model can be made ?
A. Atoms are stable and atomic spectra are continuous

spectra.
B. Atoms are stable and atomic spectra are line spectra.
C. Atoms are unstable and atomic spectra are continuous
spectra.
D. Atoms are unstable and atomic spectra are line spectra.
Figure (1) shows the line spectra of three elements X, Y and Z

while Figure (2) shows the line spectrum of a certain mineral
substance. From spectral analysis, which element must be
ABSENT from the mineral substance ?
43 3. [HKDSE PHY 2013 E2 Q3]
Which of the following spectra is/are continuous ? A. X
B. Y
(1) the spectrum from a burning candle C. Z
(2) the spectrum from an incandescent lamp D. All three elements are present in the mineral substance.
(3) the spectrum from a gas discharge tube
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (2) and (3) only
The minimum resolvable length of a typical transmission
electron microscope (TEM) is about 0.2 nm. If a particle has the
same charge of an electron and its mass is four times that of an
electron, and a beam of such particles is accelerated through the
4. [HKDSE PHY 2013 E2 Q4] same voltage in a TEM, the minimum resolvable length becomes
The energy level of an electron in a hydrogen atom is given by
E0 A. 0.05 nm.
En   , where E0 is a constant and n = 1, 2, 3, .... What is
n2 B. 0.1 nm.
the maximum wavelength of a photon that can ionize a C. 0.4 nm.
hydrogen atom in its first excited state ? D. 0.8 nm.
(h = Planck constant, c = speed of light in a vacuum)
3hc
A.
4 E0
hc
B.
E0
4hc
C.
3E0
4 hc
D.
E0
Answers : [2013] 1. D (50) 2. C (42) 3. C (49) 4. D (44) 5. A (64) 6. B (73) 7. B (22) 8. A (44) 9. C (59)

A cube with 1 mm per side is divided into nano-scale cubes, each
side measuring 1 nm. How many times has the total surface
area of the cube been increased ?
6
A. 10
8
B. 10
10
C. 10
12
D. 10

Two point objects of separation 5 mm emitting green light of
wavelength 550 nm are observed by Jacky. Assume that the
diameter of the pupils of his eyes is about 3 mm in normal
daylight. Estimate the maximum distance of the two objects
from him such that he can still resolve them.
A. 42.4 m
B. 24.2 m
C. 22.4 m
D. 20.4 m
43
2014

Which of the following statements about Rutherford’s atomic
model is/are correct ?
(1) All the positive charges and nearly all of the atom’s mass
are concentrated in its tiny central nucleus.
(2) Negatively charged electrons orbit around the nucleus.
(3) The electrons can only move in certain orbits each having a
definite energy and they do not radiate while accelerating.
A. (1) and (2) only

B. (1) and (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only The lowest four energy levels of a hydrogen atom are shown
D. (1), (2) and (3) above. Which statement about a hydrogen atom in the ground
state is INCORRECT ?
A. The collision between an electron of kinetic energy 10 eV

and the atom is perfectly elastic.
B. The collision between an electron of kinetic energy 12 eV
and the atom can be inelastic.
2. [HKDSE PHY 2014 E2 Q2] C. A photon of energy 12 eV can excite the atom to the first
There are dark lines in the spectrum of sunlight. Which of the excited state.
following statements are correct ? D. A photon of energy 14 eV can ionize the atom.

light by the atoms in the Sun's atmosphere.
(2) Light absorbed by the atoms in the Sun's atmosphere is
then re-emitted in all directions.
(3) The kinds of atoms present in the Sun's atmosphere can be
deduced by the characteristics of the dark lines. 5. [HKDSE PHY 2014 E2 Q5]
When photons each of energy 3.41 eV are incident on a metal
A. (1) and (2) only surface, the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons
B. (1) and (3) only emitted is 0.54 eV. What is the threshold frequency of this
43 C. (2) and (3) only metal ?
D. (1), (2) and (3)
33
A. 4.33 × 10 Hz
14
B. 9.53 × 10 Hz
14
C. 8.23 × 10 Hz
14
D. 6.93 × 10 Hz

A hydrogen atom in the ground state absorbs a photon of
wavelength λ so that it is excited from quantum number n = 1 to
n = 3. The ionization energy, in eV, of a hydrogen atom in the
ground state is given by 6. [HKDSE PHY 2014 E2 Q6]
A beam of light of frequency f falls on the cathode of a photocell
3hc so that photoelectrons are emitted. If the light beam is replaced
A. .
2λ by another one with the same intensity but having a frequency
2hc of 2f, how would each of the following physical quantities
B. .
3λ change ? Assume that each incident photon can emit one
9hc photoelectron.
C. .
8λ
8hc VS : stopping potential
D. . I : magnitude of the saturation photoelectric current
9λ
VS I
A. increases increases
B. increases decreases
C. remains unchanged decreases
D. decreases increases
Answers : [2014] 1. A (71) 2. D (45) 3. C (57) 4. C (49) 5. D (52) 6. B (46) 7. A (43) 8. B (40)

The de Broglie wavelength of object X is shorter than that of
object Y. Which of the following deductions must be correct ?
(1) X has a higher speed than Y.

(2) X has a greater momentum than Y.
(3) X has greater kinetic energy than Y.
A. (2) only
B. (1) and (2) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)

Which statements about nanotechnology are correct ?
(1) Glass can be made self-cleaning by coating it with titanium

oxide in nanoscale.
(2) Carbon nanotubes and diamonds have the same spatial
arrangement of carbon atoms.
(3) When gold is reduced to nanoscale, its melting point would
be different from that of its bulk form.
A. (1) and (2) only

B. (1) and (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)
43
2015

A spy aircraft is cruising at a height of 10 km above the Earth’s
surface. It is equipped with a camera having an objective lens
of aperture 10 cm. Estimate the minimum separation of two
small objects on the Earth’s surface to be distinguished by this
camera. Assume that both objects emit light of wavelength
500 nm.
A. 0.05 m
B. 0.061 m
C. 0.10 m
A beam of α-particles with the same initial kinetic energy are
D. 0.122 m
scattered by a heavy nucleus N. In the figure, if P is a possible
path for one of the α-particles, which of the paths, Q, R and S,
is/are possible for these α-particles ?
A. Q and R only
B. R and S only
C. Q only
D. S only

Which of the following provides experimental evidence for
discrete energy levels in atoms ?
A photocell is connected to a d.c. source as shown.
Monochromatic light is incident on cathode C of the photocell so
(1) the spectrum of a sodium discharge tube
that photoelectrons are emitted. The maximum kinetic energy
(2) the spectrum of a tungsten filament lamp
of photoelectrons reaching anode A depends on
(3) the diffraction of electrons by atomic spacing in crystals
43 A. (1) only
(1) the kind of metal making the cathode surface.
(2) the voltage of the d.c. source.
B. (3) only
(3) the intensity of the monochromatic light used.
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (2) and (3) only
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (2) and (3) only

In a photoelectric experiment, monochromatic light of
frequency f is incident upon a metal surface and the stopping
potential for the photoelectrons emitted is VS. If the frequency f
is changed, how would VS vary with f ?
Aurora Borealis (Northern lights) are often observed in skies at
high latitudes. When energetic electrons from outer space
A. B.
collide with the oxygen atoms in the upper atmosphere, the
oxygen atoms are excited. The subsequent emission of light is
usually green light of wavelength 558 nm. The minimum speed
of these energetic electrons is of order of magnitude
2 −1
A. 10 m s .
4 −1
B. 10 m s .
6 −1
C. 10 m s .
C. D. D.
8 −1
10 m s .
Answers : [2015] 1. D (40) 2. A (42) 3. D (62) 4. B (66) 5. C (47) 6. C (44) 7. A (42) 8. B (36)

Which of the following can increase the resolving power of a
transmission electron microscope (TEM) ?
(1) increasing the anode voltage in the electron gun

(2) decreasing the aperture of the magnetic objective lens
(3) increasing the separation between the magnetic projection
lens and the fluorescent screen
A. (1) only
B. (2) only
C. (1) and (3) only
D. (2) and (3) only

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is used in some suntan lotion. Which of the
following statements is/are correct ?
(1) Nano-sized ZnO can block ultra-violet radiation while

bulk-sized ZnO cannot.
(2) Nano-sized ZnO is more effective in reflecting visible light
than bulk-sized ZnO.
(3) Suntan lotion with nano-sized ZnO appears transparent
when applied to the skin.
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (2) and (3) only 43
2016
In the above figure, the solid line is the trajectory of an α-particle

scattered by a gold nucleus (not shown in figure). The dotted The above figure shows four energy levels of an atom drawn
lines are tangents to the trajectory at points P and Q. The two approximately to scale. Which emission spectrum below best
dotted lines together with the trajectory divide the plane into corresponds to the four electron transitions indicated ?
five regions (I–V). In which region(s) can the gold nucleus be
situated ?
A. I A.
B. II
C. III
D. IV or V
B.
C.

Which statements about wave-particle duality are correct ? D.
(1) Interference of light is evidence that light behaves as a

wave.
43 (2) Photoelectric effect is evidence that light behaves as a
particle.
(3) Electron diffraction by a crystal shows that electrons
behave as a wave.
A. (1) and (2) only 4. [HKDSE PHY 2016 E2 Q4]

B. (1) and (3) only Which of the following electron transitions between energy
C. (2) and (3) only levels in a hydrogen atom will emit electromagnetic radiation of
D. (1), (2) and (3) the longest wavelength ?
A. n = 2 to n = 1
B. n = 3 to n = 2
C. n = 4 to n = 2
D. n = 5 to n = 2

If the de Broglie waves associated with a proton and an
α-particle have the same wavelength, what is the ratio of the
kinetic energy of the proton to that of the α-particle ?
A. 1:4
B. 4:1
C. 1:2
D. 2:1
Answers : [2016] 1. C (34) 2. D (50) 3. C (57) 4. B (56) 5. D (46) 6. B (52) 7. A (49) 8. A (32) 9. D (30)*
6. [HKDSE PHY 2016 E2 Q6] 9. [HKDSE INT SCI 2016 Q27]

The minimum angular separation between two points which can The following diagram shows three light rays emitted from a
be resolved by the human eye (pupil diameter 4 mm) under point light source.
normal lighting has the order of magnitude of
−1
A. 10 rad.
−2
B. 10 rad.
−3
C. 10 rad.
−4
D. 10 rad.
If the light intensity measured at position P has a value of x,

which of the following correctly shows the values of light
intensity at positions Q and R ?
7. [HKDSE PHY 2016 E2 Q7] Light intensity at Q Light intensity at R

Transmission electron microscope (TEM) is used to observe
2
structures of nano-scale instead of an optical microscope. This A. 2x x
3
is because electron wave compared to visible light can have
4
B. 2x x
9
A. shorter wavelength so that its diffraction is less significant.
2
B. shorter wavelength so that its diffraction is more significant. C. 4x x
3
C. longer wavelength so that its diffraction is less significant.
4
D. longer wavelength so that its diffraction is more significant. D. 4x x
9

Which of the following applications in nanotechnology utilize(s)
Lotus effect ?
43
(1) Water-repelling fabric used in swimming suits is
manufactured by nano-coating.
(2) Glass is made self-cleaning by coating it with a
water-attracting material in nanosclae.
(3) Nano-sized zinc oxide is added to fabric as a photocatalyst
for protection form dirt.
A. (1) only
B. (1) and (2) only
C. (1) and (3) only
D. (2) and (3) only
2017

Which of the following statements are correct according to A parallel beam of yellow light from a sodium discharge tube is
Rutherford’s atomic model ? directed to a glass tube filled with sodium vapour. Which of the
following would happen after the sodium vapour absorbs the
(1) Almost all the mass of an atom are concentrated at the yellow light ?
nucleus.
(2) Almost all the charges of an atom are concentrated at the A. No more yellow light can be seen.
nucleus. B. The sodium vapour emits yellow light in the direction of the
(3) Electrons orbit around the nucleus. incident beam.
C. The sodium vapour emits yellow light in all directions.
A. (1) and (2) only D. The sodium vapour emits white light in all directions.
B. (1) and (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)

A beam of 8 keV electrons is directed towards a crystal to
observe the diffraction of electrons. What is the de Broglie
2. [HKDSE PHY 2017 E2 Q2] wavelength of a 8 keV electron ?
−10
A. 4.34 × 10 m
−11
B. 1.37 × 10 m
−19
C. 1.74 × 10 m
−21
D. 5.49 × 10 m
A photocell is connected to a 1 V d.c. source as shown. A

monochromatic light beam with each photon of energy 5 eV is
incident on cathode C of the photocell so that photoelectrons are 6. [HKDSE PHY 2017 E2 Q6]
43 emitted. If the work function of cathode C is 2 eV, what is the The radio telescope situated in Guizhou province has an
maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons reaching anode effective aperture of 300 m for observations. It can be used to
A? observe electromagnetic waves of frequencies between
7 9
7 × 10 Hz and 3 × 10 Hz. Estimate the minimum angular
A. 2 eV separation that the telescope can resolve.
B. 3 eV
−4
C. 4 eV A. 4.07 × 10 rad
−4
D. 6 eV B. 9.49 × 10 rad
−2
C. 1.74 × 10 rad
−2
D. 4.07 × 10 rad

3
When monochromatic light of wavelengths λ and λ are 7. [HKDSE PHY 2017 E2 Q7]
4
The leaves of the plant Edelweiss are covered with nanoscale
incident on the cathode surface of a photocell separately, the
filaments. These filaments absorb ultraviolet radiation but
stopping potentials are in the ratio of 1 : 2. What is the longest
reflect all visible light. Which of the following statements are
wavelength of monochromatic light that can cause
correct ?
photoelectrons to be emitted from the photocell ?
(1) The leaves appear white in colour under sunlight as the

A. λ
filaments reflect all visible light.
4 (2) Optical microscopes cannot be used to observe the
B. λ
3 filaments.
3 (3) Due to their tiny size, the filaments do not pose a health risk
C. λ
2 if absorbed into the human body.
5
D. λ
3 A. (1) and (2) only
B. (1) and (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)
Answers : [2017] 1. B (70) 2. A (30) 3. C (57) 4. C (60) 5. B (52) 6. A (64) 7. A (70) 8. D (70)

A scanning tunnelling microscope (STM) scans across a sample
surface as shown. The probe scans horizontally across the
sample surface at a fixed height.
Which of the following graphs best represents the variation of

the tunnelling current with distance travelled by the probe ?
A.
B.
43
C.
D.
2018

In Rutherford’s scattering experiment, the distance of closest According to the Bohr model of an atom when the electron of a
approach of an α particle to a gold atom can be deduced. This hydrogen atom undergoes transition from an inner orbit to an
distance is a good estimate of the upper limit of orbit of larger radius, the hydrogen atom may have
A. the radius of an α particle. A. absorbed a photon, and the electron’s kinetic energy
B. the radius of a gold atom. decreases.
C. the radius of a gold nucleus. B. absorbed a photon, and the electron’s kinetic energy
D. the thickness of the gold foil. increases.
C. emitted a photon, and the electron’s kinetic energy
decreases.
D. emitted a photon, and the electron’s kinetic energy
increases.

Which of the following is/are the assumption(s) of the Bohr
model of an atom ?
(1) The orbital radii of the electrons are quantized. 5. [HKDSE PHY 2018 E2 Q5]
(2) The electric force between the nucleus and an electron Some hydrogen atoms in the second excited state (i.e. n = 3)
provides the centripetal force for the circular motion. subsequently produces a spectrum consisting of a series of
(3) The total energy of an orbiting electron remains discrete lines. How many spectral lines of different
unchanged. wavelengths are there in the spectrum ?
A. (2) only A. 1
B. (3) only B. 2
C. (1) and (2) only C. 3
D. (1), (2) and (3) D. 4
43
Which statements below about spectra are correct ? Electrons, each of mass m and charge e, are being accelerated in
a transmission electron microscope (TEM). Estimate the
(1) A steel rod heated to white hot emits a continuous accelerating voltage of the TEM if the de Broglie wavelength of
spectrum. the electrons is λ.
(2) The dark lines in the absorption spectrum of an element
match in frequency with the bright lines in this element’s h2
A.
emission spectrum. meλ2
(3) The atomic spectrum of an element is a piece of evidence
h2
for the existence of energy levels in its atoms. B.
2meλ2
A. (1) and (2) only meλ2
C.
B. (1) and (3) only h2
C. (2) and (3) only
2meλ2
D. (1), (2) and (3) D.
h2
Answers : [2018] 1. C (46) 2. D (51) 3. D (48) 4. A (15) 5. C (57) 6. B (62) 7. C (62) 8. B (26)

Which of the following statements about a scanning tunneling
microscope (STM) is/are correct ?
(1) It works like an optical microscope except that a high

energy electron beam is used instead of visible light and a
magnetic field acts as a lens.
(2) It can be used to show the arrangement of atoms at a
conductive surface.
(3) The magnitude of the tunneling current depends on the
separation between the surface under investigation and the
probe of the STM.
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)

Which statement below is INCORRECT ?
A. Nano particles of silver show a colour different from the

colour of silver in bulk form.
B. Diamond is a poor thermal conductor and a poor electrical
conductor as it does not have free electrons.
C. A carbon nanotube is much stronger than steel of the same
size.
D. Carbon buckyballs such as C60 are formed by carbon atoms
arranged in hollow cages. 43
2019

There are dark lines in the Sun’s spectrum because lights at Which microscope(s) below can be used to manipulate
certain wavelengths emitted by the Sun are individual atoms on conductive surfaces ?
A. completely absorbed by the Sun’s atmosphere. (1) optical microscope

B. completely absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere. (2) scanning tunneling microscope
C. partly absorbed by the Sun’s atmosphere. (3) transmission electron microscope
D. partly absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere.
A. (1) only
B. (2) only
C. (1) and (3) only
D. (2) and (3) only

The set-up below is for investigating the maximum kinetic
energy of photoelectrons in photoelectric effect.

The energy diagram for an atom is shown below.
Monochromatic light of fixed intensity is shone on the cathode C The electron transitions shown give rise to emission lines of
of a photocell. The p.d. V applied across the photocell is wavelengths λ1, λ2, λ3 and λ4 respectively. Which of the
adjusted and the corresponding current I is measured. What following is/are correct ?
will be the graph of I against V ?
1 1
(1) 
A. B.
43 λ3 λ4
(2) λ1  λ2
(3) λ1  λ3  λ2
A. (1) only
B. (2) only
C. D.
C. (1) and (2) only
D. (2) and (3) only

The de Broglie wavelength of a neutron with kinetic energy
1 keV is λ. If the kinetic energy of the neutron becomes 2 keV,
3. [HKDSE PHY 2019 E2 Q3] what is its de Broglie wavelength ?
What is the maximum kinetic energy of the photoelectrons
emitted if gold is illuminated by electromagnetic radiation of A. 2λ
wavelength 200 nm ? The work function of gold is 5.30 eV.
B. λ
λ
A. 0.916 eV C.
2
B. 5.30 eV
C. 6.22 eV λ
D.
D. 11.3 eV 2
Answers : [2019] 1. C 2. D 3. A 4. B 5. A 6. D 7. B 8. A

Two point sources of red light at a distance of 160 m from an
observer can just be resolved by the naked eyes. If they are
replaced by point sources of violet light, how should the
observer move from the original position such that the two
sources can just be resolved ?
A. move about 280 m further away from the sources

B. move about 120 m further away from the sources
C. move about 120 m towards the sources
D. move about 70 m towards the sources

A metal is broken up into nano-sized particles which are then
closely packed. Which of the following statements is/are
correct ?
(1) The total volume remains more or less unchanged but the
total surface area increases.
(2) The shape changes but the arrangement of atoms remains
unchanged.
(3) The chemical properties change but the physical properties
remain unchanged.
A. (1) only
B. (3) only
C. (2) and (3) only
D. (1), (2) and (3)
43
--- End---
Appendix : E2 Question Distribution in Past HKDSE Paper
Multiple Choice Questions 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 ?
43.1 Photoelectric effect
(a) Photon energy
(b) Calculations using Einstein’s photoelectric equation 1 1 2 1
(c) Understanding photoelectric effect 1 1
(d) Graphical analysis 1 1 1
43.2 Atomic model
(a) Rutherford’s atomic model 1 2 1 1 1 1 1
(b) Bohr’s model of hydrogen atom 1 2 2 1 1 2 1
(c) Atomic spectra 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 1
43.3 Nano-world
(a) Wave–particle duality 1 1 2 1 1
(b) Observing at atomic scale 1 2 2 2 2 2
(c) Nanomaterials 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Structured Question (Total mark = 10) 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 ?
43.1 Photoelectric effect 10 10 10
43 43.2 Atomic model 10 10 10 10
43.3 Nano-world 10

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[E2] 43. Atomic World (MC) Page 43.

[E2] 43. Atomic World (MC)

Part 1 CE/AL/HL Questions

43.1 Photoelectric effect

Part A Photon energy

1. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q38] ! 5. [HKALE PHY 2006 Q39]

Use the information to arrange the above in the order of

2. [HKALE PHY 2012 Q39] A. (2), (1), (3)

7. [HKALE PHY 1999 Q28]

! 4. [HKALE PHY 2008 Q43] R

Answers : 1. C (45) 2. C (73) 3. C (68) 4. D (36) 5. A (47) 6. A (61) 7. E

Part B Calculations using Einstein’s photoelectric equation

8. [HKHLE PHY 1990 Q24] ! 12. [HKALE PHY 1995 Q36]

13. [HKALE PHY 1989 Q45]

If monochromatic light of wavelength 400 nm is incident on

Answers : 8. D 9. B (69) 10. D (48) 11. C (68) 12. E 13. B 14. C

15. [HKALE PHY 1984 Q32] Part C Understanding photoelectric effect

When a charged electroscope with a clean zinc plate as a cap is

! 19. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q17] 43

Answers : 15. A 16. D 17. A 18. B 19. A (52)

(1) The temperature of the photo-emissive cell is too low.

A d.c. source is applied to a photocell as shown.

25. [HKALE PHY 1996 Q42]

A. release one mole of electrons from the surface of the metal.

A. The number of electrons emitted from the metal surface

! 28. [HKALE PHY 1991 Q44]

(1) The photon energy is doubled.

A. More electrons are emitted with unchanged speed.

Answers : 26. C 27. D 28. A 29. A 30. E 31. E

32. [HKALE PHY 1983 Q48] Part D Graphical analysis

(1) the nature of E. A. B.

A. (1), (2) and (3)

34. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q40]

Answers : 32. D 33. D 34. A (54)

Two of these quantities, when plotted on a graph of y against x,

Which of the following correctly identifies x and y ? (Assume

38. [HKALE PHY 1999 Q40]

Answers : 35. A (46)* 36. A (47) 37. E 38. A

A student measures the p.d. V to stop photoelectrons emitted in a

A. the standard results are obtained with light of higher

42. [HKALE PHY 1980 Q50]

The above figure shows the currents observed in a photocell

If the emitting electrode is now changed to one of a different

(1) cuts the VS axis at the same point.

A. (1), (2) and (3)

Answers : 39. B 40. B 41. C 42. E

43.2 Atomic model

Part A Rutherford’s atomic model

44. [HKCEE PHY 1991 Q40]

The diagram above shows the path of an α-particle passing close 43

47. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q42]

In the above figure, X is a heavy nucleus. Four α-particles P, Q,

Answers : 43. A 44. E 45. A 46. D* 47. B (52)

A thin gold foil is bombarded by a beam of α-particles and they

50. [HKALE PHY 1992 Q47]

A. (1), (2) and (3)

Answers : 48. C (57) 49. E 50. B 51. D 52. E 53. C 54. C

Part B Bohr’s model of hydrogen atom

56. [HKALE PHY 2013 Q39]