Perturbing Hamiltonian optical absorption in semiconductors

In summary, a perturbing Hamiltonian is a mathematical representation used in quantum mechanics to describe the effect of an external perturbation on a system. It can introduce new energy levels in semiconductors, which can affect the absorption of light. This can be used to describe various perturbations, such as electric or magnetic fields, strain, and defects in the crystal lattice. It is typically calculated using perturbation theory and has practical applications in the development of optoelectronic devices.
  • #1
dyn
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Hi
I am looking at the problem of optical absorption in direct gap semiconductors. It seems like the perturbing Hamiltonian is an oscillating perturbation , ie. an electromagnetic wave. Why can't the problem be treated as the absorption of a single particle , ie. a photon ?
 
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  • #2
Of course it can, but it is more complicated to treat the electromagnetic field quantum mechanically than classically.
 

1. What is a perturbing Hamiltonian?

A perturbing Hamiltonian is a mathematical representation used in quantum mechanics to describe the effect of an external perturbation on a system. It is used to calculate the change in energy levels and other properties of a system due to the perturbation.

2. How does a perturbing Hamiltonian affect optical absorption in semiconductors?

A perturbing Hamiltonian can introduce new energy levels in a semiconductor, which can affect the absorption of light. This is because the absorption of light in semiconductors is related to the energy difference between the valence and conduction bands, and any changes in these energy levels can alter the absorption spectrum.

3. What types of perturbations can be described using a perturbing Hamiltonian?

A perturbing Hamiltonian can be used to describe a variety of perturbations, such as an external electric or magnetic field, strain, or defects in the crystal lattice of a semiconductor. These perturbations can affect the electronic and optical properties of the semiconductor.

4. How is a perturbing Hamiltonian calculated?

A perturbing Hamiltonian is typically calculated using perturbation theory, which involves expanding the Hamiltonian in terms of a small parameter that represents the strength of the perturbation. The resulting equations can then be solved to determine the effect of the perturbation on the system's energy levels and other properties.

5. What are the practical applications of studying perturbing Hamiltonians in semiconductors?

The study of perturbing Hamiltonians in semiconductors has practical applications in the development of new optoelectronic devices, such as solar cells and light emitting diodes. Understanding how perturbations affect the optical properties of semiconductors can help in the design and optimization of these devices.

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