What is the definition of momentum relaxation time in semiconductors?

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Momentum relaxation time in semiconductors refers to the average duration a charge carrier retains its momentum before scattering occurs. This concept is crucial for understanding carrier dynamics, particularly in silicon semiconductors, where it is noted to be in the subpicosecond range. The short momentum relaxation time allows free carriers to respond almost instantaneously to oscillations in optical waves. A semi-classical treatment of this topic can provide a more detailed definition and context. Understanding this parameter is essential for analyzing semiconductor behavior in various applications.
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What is a "momentum relaxtion time"? Tried googling it but couldn't get any definitions.

Comes from the sentence in a paper on silicon semiconductors:
"the momentum relaxation times lies in the subpicosecond regime...as a result free carriers can follow oscillations of an optical wave almost instantaneously..."
 
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It is the average time a carrier loses its original momentum due to a scattering event.
 
seems understandable.

thanks.
 
If you have an amazon account:


Page-9 gives a semi-classical treatment and a definition.
 
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