Surface states

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-011666",
  "term": "Surface states",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "Electronic energy levels that exist at the surface of a material, distinct from the bulk energy bands. These states arise from the termination of the crystal lattice and the altered bonding environment at the surface. They can act as traps or recombination centers for charge carriers.",
  "subject": "Physical and Biophysical Chemistry",
  "see_also": [
    "charge density",
    "space charge",
    "surface region"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1986, 58, 437. 'Interphases in systems of conducting phases (Recommendations 1985)' on page 443 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac198658030437)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/surface-states/"
}