The discrete Boltzmann equation may be applied to the time evolution of the electron distribution for spatially homogeneous systems in which optical-phonon scattering is dominant. We describe the time-dependent solution for both pulsed and steady excitation (e.g., via photoexcitation). The results for the latter case may be compared with experimental hot-electron luminescence spectra under steady photoexcitation. The agreement is generally good, but sensitive in detail to the method used to calculate recombination rates.

• Received 6 February 1987

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.36.1025