Spectroscopic techniques are among the most powerful characterization methods used to study semiconductors. This volume presents reviews of a number of major spectroscopic techniques used to investigate bulk and artificially structured semiconductors including: photoluminescence, photo-reflectance, inelastic light scattering, magneto-optics, ultrafast work, piezo-spectroscopy methods, and spectroscopy at extremely low temperatures and high magnetic fields. Emphasis is given to major semiconductor systems, and artificially structured materials such as GaAs, InSb, Hg1-xCdxTe and MBE grown structures based upon GaAs/AlGaAs materials. Both the spectroscopic novice and the expert will benefit from the descriptions and discussions of the methods, principles, and applications relevant to today's semiconductor structures. Key Features * Discusses the latest advances in spectroscopic techniques used to investigate bulk and artificially structured semiconductors * Features detailed review articles which cover basic principles * Highlights specific applications such as the use of laser spectroscopy for the characterization of GaAs quantum well structures.