An artistic representation of the formation of an exciton (IMAGE)

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University

An artistic representation of the formation of an exciton

Caption

When light is shone on a semiconducting material, the particles of light interact with the material’s electrons (shown here in blue). This causes the electrons to jump to a higher energy level. Each electron leaves behind a hole at the lower energy level. The two are oppositely charged so they revolve around each other, forming the short-lived exciton.

Credit

OIST

Usage Restrictions

Credit must be given to the creator.

License

CC BY

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.