When the electrons hit the bandgap

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    Bandgap Electrons
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the phase change of electrons when they encounter a bandgap at the interface between two metals. The focus includes theoretical modeling using the nearly free electron approximation and considerations of tunneling phenomena.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks how to calculate the phase change of reflection when electrons hit a bandgap at a metal interface, suggesting a significant amount of reflection occurs.
  • Another participant asserts that there is no bandgap in metals, indicating a potential misunderstanding in the original question.
  • A later reply suggests that the original inquiry may actually pertain to tunneling through a potential barrier rather than a bandgap, proposing that the term "bandgap" might be incorrectly applied.
  • One participant agrees with the tunneling interpretation, mentioning the possibility of considering an image charge potential in the analysis.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus; there is disagreement regarding the existence of a bandgap in metals and the correct framing of the original question. Multiple interpretations, including tunneling and potential barriers, are presented.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the terminology used in the original question, particularly the reference to "bandgap" in the context of metals. The discussion highlights the need for clearer definitions and assumptions related to the physical phenomena being analyzed.

tonyhongxp
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how to calculate the phase change of the reflection when the electrons hit the bandgap of a metal from another metal through a common interface? For sure i know there must be a large quantity of them reflected back. but how to model this using the nearly free electron?
 
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There isn't any bandgap in metals.
 
tonyhongxp said:
how to calculate the phase change of the reflection when the electrons hit the bandgap of a metal from another metal through a common interface? For sure i know there must be a large quantity of them reflected back. but how to model this using the nearly free electron?

You need to rethink of your question because I suspect you have one thing in mind, but used the wrong words for it.

As has been said, metals do not have "band gaps", at least not around the Fermi level. Most semiconductors/insulators do. I am guessing that you are thinking of a tunneling problem, and the "bandgap" is actually "potential barrier". However, without you reformulating the question accurately, this is only a guess, and I don't normally answer guesses.

Zz.
 
Last edited:
I think that's probably it - tunneling across a barrier potential (+ image charge potential?)
 

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