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How does a light dependent resistor (photoresistor) work in terms of photons and electrons?
Thanks,
Jamie
Thanks,
Jamie
A Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) is a type of semiconductor device that exhibits varying resistance in response to changes in light intensity. It is also commonly known as a photoresistor or photocell.
An LDR is made of a semiconductor material with high resistance that decreases when exposed to light. When light hits the LDR, the photons in the light cause electrons in the semiconductor material to become excited, which lowers the resistance and allows more current to flow through the device.
LDRs are commonly used in light sensing and control circuits, such as automatic lighting systems, solar panels, and cameras. They can also be found in applications like burglar alarms, streetlights, and traffic lights.
LDRs are unique because their resistance changes in response to light, whereas other types of resistors have a fixed resistance value. Additionally, LDRs have a nonlinear response to light, meaning their resistance changes exponentially rather than linearly.
LDRs are inexpensive, easy to use, and have a wide range of resistance values. They also have a high sensitivity to light, making them suitable for a variety of light sensing applications. Additionally, LDRs do not require any external power source to function, making them energy-efficient.