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A '''quantum well''' is a narrow dip in [[potential energy]], which can be used to store [[electron]]s or other charged particles. A quantum well could be created by sandwiching two materials together, such as a thin sheet of metal between two blocks of rubber. An infinitely deep quantum well would have a voltage of 0V in the middle, and infinity in the barriers.
Quantum wells are used in many modern devices, including lasers, light detectors, transistors (the computer you are using right now contains around a billion!). Some of the newest LCD computer monitors use quantum wells to give ultra-fast switching in their backlighting.