4. Glossary

Band gap

The term "gap" is used in semiconductor physics to describe the valence and conduction bands of semiconductors. Between the two bands there is an energy interval in which a charge carrier cannot find its way: this is the band gap. The energy gap between the two bands is called the gap.

Silicium multicristallin; multicrystalline silicon

Silicon wafer made up of several grains ranging in size from a few millimetres to a few centimetres.

Heterojunction; heterojunction

Junction consisting of two materials with different structural properties. For example, amorphous silicon on crystalline silicon, or gallium arsenide on germanium.