What Causes Reflection and Transparency in Solid State Physics?

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Reflection and transparency in solid-state physics are complex phenomena that cannot be attributed to isolated atomic transitions. Instead, they result from interactions involving large groups of particles and atoms within the material. This distinction is crucial for understanding the optical properties of solids. A recommended resource for further insight is a lecture note by Mildred Dresselhaus, a prominent figure in material science. The discussion emphasizes the need to consider the collective behavior of atoms rather than focusing solely on individual atoms.
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We have very frequent questions regarding the "microscopic" details of the process of reflection, the cause of transparency, etc. in solids. In many cases, people often still think of this as being caused by "atomic transition", neglecting the fact that these are solid state physics and not occurring on individual, isolated atoms.

This is a http://www.eknigu.org/get/P_Physics...ties Of Solids (lecture notes)(198s)_PS_.pdf", written by one of the giants in the field of material science/condensed matter physics - Mildred Dresselhaus.

As one can see, the process of absorption and reflection isn't trivial, but it always involves a LARGE conglomerate of particle and atoms, making it NOT an isolated, single-atom process.

Zz.
 
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Nice link. Thaks Zz.
 
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