Magnitude of the electric dipole moment in semiconductors

In summary, when using k.p theory to calculate the electric dipole moment in semiconductors, the value is fitted to the effective mass of the electron in the conduction band. However, this value often turns out to be larger than the dimension of the unit cell, which is not logical. This is because the calculation involves an overlap integral between two Bloch functions and a position operator, which should not result in a value larger than the unit cell. In regards to optical processes in semiconductors, most textbooks use the vector potential and electron momentum (A.p) instead of the electric dipole moment. It is difficult to find a reference that solely uses the electric dipole moment in the calculation.
  • #1
ppdbacke
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When using k.p theory to calculate the magnitude of the electric dipole moment in semiconductors for band-to-band transitions, the value of the dipole moment is basically fitted to the effective mass of the electron in the conduction band. However, the values turn out to be larger than the dimension of the elementary unit cell, which does not make that much sense. We are basically calculating an overlap integral between two Bloch functions which have unit cell dimensions and a position operator. How can that ever be larger than the unit cell?
 
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  • #2
As a follow up to the previous question. While deriving optical processes in semiconductors practically all textbooks use the vector potential and the electron momentum (A.p). I haven;t found a single reference that actually uses the electric dipole moment to do this and yet this is the value all books state at the end of the calculation. Does anybody have a solid reference that simply uses the electric dipole moment from the beginning to the end of the calculation?
 

What is the electric dipole moment in semiconductors and why is it important?

The electric dipole moment in semiconductors is a measure of the separation of positive and negative charges within the material. It is important because it can affect the material's electrical properties, such as its conductivity and dielectric constant.

How is the magnitude of the electric dipole moment in semiconductors measured?

The magnitude of the electric dipole moment in semiconductors can be measured through various experimental techniques, such as x-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance.

What factors affect the magnitude of the electric dipole moment in semiconductors?

The magnitude of the electric dipole moment in semiconductors can be influenced by factors such as the type and concentration of impurities, crystal structure, and temperature. It can also be affected by external electric fields.

How does the magnitude of the electric dipole moment in semiconductors differ from that in other types of materials?

In general, semiconductors have lower magnitudes of electric dipole moment compared to polar materials such as water or ionic solids. This is because semiconductors have a smaller difference in electronegativity between their constituent atoms.

Can the magnitude of the electric dipole moment in semiconductors be controlled?

Yes, the magnitude of the electric dipole moment in semiconductors can be controlled through various methods, such as introducing impurities, applying external electric fields, or altering the material's crystal structure. This can be useful in designing semiconductors with specific electrical properties for various applications.

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