Work function:In physics, the work function is the minimum amount of energy needed to remove an electron from a solid surface. It is usually denoted by the symbol φ, and is measured in electron volts (eV).The work function of a material is affected by many factors, such as the chemical composition of the surface, the crystal structure, the temperature, and the presence of impurities. In general, metals have lower work functions than non-metals. For example, the work function of aluminum is 4.28 eV, while that of carbon is 11.26 eV.
