Crystal momentum

Crystal momentum is a concept used in solid-state physics to describe how electrons move within a crystal lattice, such as in a metal or semiconductor. Unlike actual momentum, it’s related to the electron’s wave-like properties and reflects how electrons behave collectively in the structured atomic arrangement. It helps scientists understand electron conduction and electrical properties of materials. Essentially, crystal momentum acts as a mathematical tool to track the electron’s motion influenced by the crystal’s periodic structure, simplifying complex interactions and enabling predictions about a material’s electrical behavior without describing every atomic detail.