Optical Properties Of Solids Site

The most critical factor in a solid's optical behavior is its . Insulators and Semiconductors: These have a "band gap" ( Egcap E sub g ). If a photon's energy ( ) is greater than Egcap E sub g

), which relate to how electrons and atoms oscillate when hit by an electric field. 1. Fundamental Interactions Optical Properties of Solids

When a solid absorbs energy and re-emits it as light (e.g., LED lights). The most critical factor in a solid's optical

An increase in electrical conductivity caused by light absorption (used in light sensors). Optical Properties of Solids

Designed with semiconductors that have band gaps optimized to absorb the solar spectrum.

): Determines the speed of light in the material and how much it "bends" (refraction). Extinction Coefficient (