Semiconductor and light interaction

In summary, semiconductors interact with light through the absorption and emission of photons. The bandgap of a semiconductor determines the energy required for light absorption and can be controlled through material properties. The absorption of light in semiconductors is measured through spectrophotometry. Practical applications of semiconductor and light interaction include solar cells, LEDs, photodetectors, and various optical and electronic devices.
  • #1
2sin54
109
1
Hello. Does anyone know a good book explaining light and semiconductor interaction? Namely, the processes that take place inside the material.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Pankove is a classic. Yu and Cardona is another.
 

Related to Semiconductor and light interaction

1. How do semiconductors interact with light?

Semiconductors interact with light through the absorption and emission of photons. When a photon of light is absorbed by a semiconductor, it can excite an electron to a higher energy level, creating an electron-hole pair. This can lead to the generation of an electric current. Similarly, when an electron and hole recombine, they emit a photon of light, resulting in the emission of light from a semiconductor.

2. What is the bandgap of a semiconductor and how does it affect light interaction?

The bandgap of a semiconductor is the energy difference between the highest occupied energy level (valence band) and the lowest unoccupied energy level (conduction band). It determines the energy required for an electron to move from the valence band to the conduction band. This affects light interaction as photons with energy equal to or greater than the bandgap can be absorbed, while photons with energy less than the bandgap will pass through without interaction.

3. Can the interaction between semiconductors and light be controlled?

Yes, the interaction between semiconductors and light can be controlled through the manipulation of the material's properties such as bandgap, dopant concentration, and crystal structure. This allows for the customization of semiconductors for specific applications, such as solar cells and LEDs.

4. How is the absorption of light in semiconductors measured?

The absorption of light in semiconductors is typically measured using spectrophotometry, which measures the amount of light absorbed by a material at different wavelengths. The absorption spectrum can then be used to determine the bandgap and other properties of the semiconductor.

5. What are some practical applications of semiconductor and light interaction?

Semiconductor and light interaction has many practical applications, including solar cells, LEDs, photodetectors, and lasers. It is also used in various optical and electronic devices, such as transistors, sensors, and optical communication systems.

Similar threads

  • Science and Math Textbooks
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Science and Math Textbooks
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
9
Views
210
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • Science and Math Textbooks
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Science and Math Textbooks
Replies
1
Views
885
  • Science and Math Textbooks
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
197
Back
Top