Here $E_c$ is the bottom of the conduction band and $E_v$ is the top of the valence band.
Here $E_c$ is the energy of an electron at the bottom of the conduction band and $E_v$ is the energy of an electron at the top of the valence band.
Observe that because we are describing particles in the valence band as holes, $m_h > 0$ and $E_h > 0$.
Observe that because we are describing particles in the valence band as holes, $m_h > 0$ and $E_h > -E_v$.
??? question "a photon gives a single electron enough energy to move from the valence band to the conduction band. How many particles does this process create?"
??? question "a photon gives a single electron enough energy to move from the valence band to the conduction band. How many particles does this process create?"