Cathodic luminescence

Cathodic luminescence is a phenomenon observed in physics and materials science that occurs when an electrical voltage is applied to a cathode, usually made of a conductive material such as metal. This voltage excites the electrons in the cathode, raising them to higher energy levels. When these electrons return to their original energy levels, they emit photons that are visible as light.

Different colors and patterns can appear on the surface of the cathode during cathode luminescence, depending on various factors such as the material of the cathode, the applied voltage and the structural properties of the surface. The colors range from blue to green to red, with the exact color determined by the band gap energy of the material.

Cathode luminescence is often used in material analysis and characterization as it can provide information about the structural and electronic properties of materials. In particular, it can be used to identify defects, impurities or other deviations in the crystal structure of materials.

In addition, cathode luminescence is also used in various technological applications. For example, it is used in imaging and microscopy to obtain high-resolution images of materials. It can also be used in display and lighting technology to produce light sources with high efficiency and brightness.