An expression is derived for the photoelectric current produced at the surface of a metal, the conduction electrons being supposed free and the potential barrier of arbitrary shape. The validity of the common assumption that the current arising from conduction electrons of a particular momentum can be expressed as the product of an excitation function and a transmission coefficient is examined. It is concluded that the assumption is in general valid. The production in the photoelectric current of beat frequencies between spectral lines is also briefly discussed.

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beat frequencies transmission coefficient excitation function photoelectric current spectral lines

R. E. B. Makinson,.The Surface Photoelectric Effect. 75 (12),1908–1911.

R. E. B. Makinson,"The Surface Photoelectric Effect" 75

R. E. B. Makinson,"The Surface Photoelectric Effect"