10. – Glossary: Definitions

Photoelectric effect

A process in which a photon of light striking a specific material causes an electron to be released, which then contributes to the conduction current. The photon's energy is converted, either completely or partially, into kinetic energy.

Pixel; Pixel

The smallest light-sensitive element in an image (short for "picture element"). The pixels on a sensor may be adjacent or spaced apart; their size (1.5 µm to 30 µm) and shape are optimized for the intended application.

Full well capacity

The maximum number of electrons that can be trapped by the potential difference that maintains the pixel's potential well. It is expressed in terms of the number of electrons, bits, or gray levels/colors.

Dynamic range

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