Dark Current

Dark current is the constant response exhibited by a receptor of radiation during periods when it is not actively being exposed to light. It may refer to:

  • Dark current (biochemistry) : The depolarizing current, carried by Na+ ions, that flows into a photoreceptor cell when unstimulated.
  • Dark current (physics): The relatively small electric current that flows through a photosensitive device when no photons are entering the device.
  • Dark current (chemistry) : The constant response produced by a spectrochemical receptor, in the absence of radiation.

Famous quotes containing the words dark and/or current:

    —the dark ajar, the rocks breaking with light,
    and undisturbed, unbreathing flame,
    colorless, sparkless, freely fed on straw,
    and, lulled within, a family with pets,
    —and looked and looked our infant sight away.
    Elizabeth Bishop (1911–1979)

    A man is a little thing whilst he works by and for himself, but, when he gives voice to the rules of love and justice, is godlike, his word is current in all countries; and all men, though his enemies are made his friends and obey it as their own.
    Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)