Density of states (DOS) refers to the number of quantum states available for occupation at each energy level in a system, crucial for understanding electronic properties in materials. It plays a significant role in solid-state physics, influencing conductivity and heat capacity. The DOS can vary with energy, impacting how materials respond to external stimuli like temperature and electric fields. Understanding DOS is essential for applications in semiconductors and nanotechnology. For a detailed explanation, refer to the linked Wikipedia article.