Light Illumination effect on metal conductivity

In summary, shining light on a metal, specifically Aluminum or Gold, with infrared (IR) light (1.5um) will not increase the number of carriers as it does in engineered photosensitive devices. Instead, it will only cause minor absorption and potentially a slight increase in resistivity due to heating.
  • #1
donquixote17
9
0
How does shining light on a metal affect it's conductivity? Specifically, I'm wondering about IR light (1.5um) shining on either Aluminum or Gold.

My intuition would say that if the metal isn't a perfect reflector and has some absorption, it would increase the number of carriers, thus increasing the conductivity, but I could be wrong.
 
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  • #2
Something to get you started: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conductivity_of_transparency
 
  • #3
An increase in the number of carriers is what happens in engineered photosensitive devices (photodiodes).

In metals, you won't increase the number of carriers. Afaik, 1.5 micron photons won't make electrons jump the bandgap in any common metal.

The minor absorption will only cause a bit of heating, which might actually cause a very slight inrease in resistivity if anything.
 
  • #4
Thanks for the help. That answers my question.
 

1. What is the "Light Illumination effect on metal conductivity"?

The "Light Illumination effect on metal conductivity" refers to the change in electrical conductivity of a metal when it is exposed to light. This phenomenon is also known as photoconductivity.

2. How does light affect the conductivity of metals?

When light hits a metal, it transfers energy to the electrons in the metal, causing them to move more freely. This increase in electron mobility results in a higher conductivity of the metal.

3. Does the wavelength of light have an impact on the conductivity of metals?

Yes, the wavelength of light does have an impact on the conductivity of metals. Different wavelengths of light have different amounts of energy, and therefore, can affect the movement of electrons in different ways. Metals may have a higher or lower conductivity depending on the wavelength of light that is shone on them.

4. Is the "Light Illumination effect on metal conductivity" reversible?

Yes, the "Light Illumination effect on metal conductivity" is reversible. When the light source is removed, the metal will return to its original state and its conductivity will decrease.

5. How is the "Light Illumination effect on metal conductivity" used in scientific research or practical applications?

The "Light Illumination effect on metal conductivity" has various applications, such as in solar cells and photodiodes, where the conversion of light energy into electrical energy is essential. It is also used in research to study the properties of different metals and their response to different wavelengths of light.

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