Abstract
It is well known that the “Saturation Current” from a thermionic source rises continuously as the applied voltage is raised and in reality never reaches a saturation value. W. Schottky predicted this rise in the saturation current on theoretical grounds and obtained a rough experimental confirmation of his theoretical formula. The present investigation was undertaken to find what connection it has with the emission of electrons from cold metals under the action of intense electric fields. If the truth of Schottky’s theory be assumed it is possible to deduce the value of the electronic charge e from observations of the rise of the saturation current with the applied field. It was not the primary intention of the author to determine the value of e in this way, nevertheless the results obtained show that the method might be developed into one of some accuracy, and thus to give a value of this important constant in a way differing completely from that of Millikan (oil drop method), Perrin (Brownian movement) or of Hull and Williams (shot effect).
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: Proceedings of the Royal Society of London. Series A, Containing Papers of a Mathematical and Physical Character
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.