ScienceAugust 14, 2026

photoemission

foh-toh-ih-MISH-un

Definition

The process by which electrons are ejected from a material's surface when it is struck by electromagnetic radiation, such as photons.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'phōs' (light) combined with the Latin 'emittere' (to send out), reflecting the scientific principle of using light to trigger the release of particles.

In the news

In this article, researchers use a technique called ARPES, which relies on photoemission to knock electrons out of a material to map their energy and movement.

Electrons Mysteriously Slow to a Crawl Inside This Magnetic Material

Read the full article ↗

SciTechDaily

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