diodilähteet

Diodilähteet, also known as semiconductor light-emitting diodes (LEDs), are electronic components that emit light when an electric current passes through them. They are a type of semiconductor device that utilizes electroluminescence to produce light. Unlike incandescent bulbs which generate light by heating a filament, LEDs are solid-state devices with no moving parts or filaments, contributing to their long lifespan and durability.

The fundamental principle behind an LED is the recombination of electrons and holes within a semiconductor material. When a forward voltage is applied across the p-n junction of the diode, electrons from the n-type material and holes from the p-type material are injected into the junction region. As these charge carriers recombine, they release energy in the form of photons, which are particles of light. The color of the emitted light depends on the band gap energy of the semiconductor material used. By varying the composition of the semiconductor, LEDs can be manufactured to emit a wide spectrum of colors, including red, green, blue, and ultraviolet, as well as white light, often produced by phosphors coating a blue LED.

LEDs offer several advantages over traditional lighting technologies. They are highly energy-efficient, consuming significantly less power for the same light output. Their long operational life, often tens of thousands of hours, reduces maintenance and replacement costs. LEDs are also compact, robust, and can be easily integrated into various designs. These characteristics have led to their widespread adoption in numerous applications, ranging from general illumination and display screens to indicator lights and specialized lighting for agriculture and horticulture.