Non-equilibrium states in Semiconductor

[NJunJie]

Just to clarify - non equilibrium states in semiconductor means that the semiconductor is affected by external factors such as light?

 

[Mr.Green]

Yes, but to be more specific a non-equilibrium state happens when an electron gains some kinetic energy and jumps to an energy level that is higher than its stable or eqilibrium state. The electron may gain this energy either from an external source (such as light or UV) or an internal source (collision with other electrons).