Electron-hole recombination

Electron-hole recombination occurs when an electron, which carries a negative charge, combines with a corresponding positive charge called a hole in a material like a semiconductor. This process releases energy, often as light (luminescence) or heat. It’s essential in devices like LEDs and solar cells, where controlling recombination affects their efficiency. Essentially, it's the "filling" of a vacancy left by an electron, resulting in the neutralization of both charges and the release of energy.