fotoionización

Fotoionización, also known as photoionization, is a physical process where an atom or molecule absorbs one or more photons (light particles) and subsequently loses one or more electrons. This results in the formation of a positively charged ion. The energy of the absorbed photons must be equal to or greater than the ionization energy of the atom or molecule for the process to occur.

The phenomenon is crucial in various scientific fields. In astrophysics, fotoionización plays a significant role in the formation and properties of interstellar clouds and nebulae. The ultraviolet radiation from stars can ionize the gas in these regions, affecting their chemical composition and spectral signatures. In plasma physics, fotoionización is a key mechanism for creating and maintaining plasmas, which are ionized gases.

In spectroscopy, fotoionización is utilized in techniques like photoelectron spectroscopy, where the kinetic energy of the emitted electrons provides information about the electronic structure of the atom or molecule. It is also relevant in atmospheric science, particularly in the upper atmosphere where solar ultraviolet radiation causes ionization. The intensity and energy of the photons are determining factors in the rate and extent of fotoionización.