Question about phonons and conductivity

In summary, phonons are quantized lattice vibrations that are responsible for heat and electrical conductivity in materials. They can affect conductivity by scattering electrons or aiding in the transfer of energy. Phonon conductivity differs from electronic conductivity in that it is dependent on lattice vibrations rather than electron movement. Phonons can be controlled through various techniques to manipulate the overall conductivity of a material. However, there are other factors, such as impurities and crystal structure, that can also affect conductivity and interact with phonons.
  • #1
nuby
336
0
Do phonons transfer energy between molecules/electrons within a conductor? If so, how does it happen?
 
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  • #2
Electron/hole-phonon scattering...

Look in any solid state text of the level of Kittel or Ashcroft and Mermin.
 
  • #3


Yes, phonons are responsible for transferring energy between molecules and electrons within a conductor. Phonons are collective excitations of atoms in a solid, which can be thought of as waves that travel through the lattice of the solid. These waves carry energy and momentum, and when they interact with molecules and electrons, they can transfer this energy and momentum to them.

In a conductor, phonons are primarily responsible for transferring thermal energy. When a phonon collides with an electron, it can transfer some of its energy to the electron, causing it to vibrate more vigorously. This increased vibration is what we perceive as heat.

Additionally, phonons can also transfer energy between molecules within a conductor. When a phonon collides with a molecule, it can transfer some of its energy to the molecule, causing it to vibrate more rapidly. This increased vibration can contribute to the overall thermal energy of the conductor.

Overall, phonons play a crucial role in the thermal conductivity of a material by facilitating the transfer of energy between molecules and electrons within a conductor.
 

1. What are phonons and how do they relate to conductivity?

Phonons are quantized lattice vibrations that occur in solids. They are responsible for the transmission of heat and electrical conductivity in materials.

2. How do phonons affect the conductivity of a material?

Phonons can affect the conductivity of a material by scattering electrons, which can hinder the flow of electricity or heat. However, in some cases, phonons can also enhance conductivity by aiding in the transfer of energy.

3. How is phonon conductivity different from electronic conductivity?

Phonon conductivity is the transfer of heat or electricity through lattice vibrations, while electronic conductivity is the transfer of energy through the movement of electrons. Phonon conductivity is typically more dominant at lower temperatures, while electronic conductivity is more prominent at higher temperatures.

4. Can phonons be controlled to manipulate conductivity?

Yes, phonons can be controlled through various techniques such as doping, alloying, or modifying the crystal structure to alter their behavior and thus affect the overall conductivity of a material.

5. Are phonons the only factor affecting conductivity in materials?

No, there are other factors that can affect conductivity in materials, such as impurities, defects, and crystal structure. The interactions between these factors and phonons can also influence the conductivity of a material.

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