In semiconductors, an absorbed photon can create a bound electron-hole pair called an exciton, which dominates the optical spectrum at low temperatures.
), which relate to how electrons and atoms oscillate when hit by an electric field. 1. Fundamental Interactions Optical Properties of Solids
, it can kick an electron from the valence band to the conduction band, causing absorption. In semiconductors, an absorbed photon can create a
In the infrared range, light interacts directly with the vibrations of the crystal lattice (phonons). 5. Applications in Technology causing absorption. In the infrared range
Light passing through the medium. Transparent materials like glass have electronic gaps larger than the energy of visible light, meaning photons pass through without being absorbed. 2. The Role of Band Structure