Electron Emission from Metals as a Function of Temperature

Abstract

The equation $i=A{T}^2{e}^{-\frac{b_{\mathrm{o}}}{T}}$ was first presented in 1911, and the fact that $A$ is a universal constant was stated in 1915. The proof involved nothing beyond the application of elementary thermodynamics to the equilibrium of the external electron atmospheres, hence the development owes nothing to Nernst's heat theorem or chemical constants. Contrary to Dushman's implication (Phys. Rev. 21, 623, 1923), the writer did not consider it probable that the work function is the same for all substances.