Suppose the potential between each dynode in our photomultiplier tube is 80V. From the relationship we found from our last plot, this would mean that two secondary electrons would be emitted for each incident electron at each dynode. Suppose a photon has struck the photocathode of the photomultiplier tube and has emitted the initial photoelectron. What will happen when this electron strikes the first dynode?

The initial electron caused the dynode to emit two secondary electrons. Each of these electrons are accelerated to the second dynode. What will happen when these electrons strike the second dynode?

Each of these electrons produced two more secondary electrons, resulting in a total of four electrons. Each of these electrons is accelerating to the third dynode. How many electrons will there be after these strike the third dynode?