Semiconductors

Definition

Semiconductors are materials that have electrical conductivity between that of conductors and insulators, making them essential for modern electronic devices. Their unique properties allow them to control electrical current, which is crucial for the operation of components like transistors and diodes. This control of current makes semiconductors foundational in technology applications such as computers, smartphones, and solar cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Silicon is the most widely used semiconductor material due to its abundant availability and suitable electrical properties.
2. Semiconductors can be classified into two types: intrinsic (pure) and extrinsic (doped with impurities) semiconductors.
3. Temperature significantly affects the conductivity of semiconductors; as temperature increases, their conductivity typically improves.
4. The invention of the transistor in the late 1940s marked a turning point in technology, leading to the development of integrated circuits and modern computing.
5. Semiconductors are crucial in renewable energy technologies, particularly in photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity.

Review Questions

• How do semiconductors differ from conductors and insulators in terms of their electrical properties?
  • Semiconductors have electrical conductivity that falls between that of conductors and insulators. While conductors allow electric current to flow freely due to their high conductivity, insulators resist current flow entirely. Semiconductors, on the other hand, can conduct electricity under certain conditions, making them versatile materials for controlling electrical signals in devices.
• Discuss the role of doping in modifying the properties of semiconductors and its significance in technology.
  • Doping involves adding specific impurities to a semiconductor to enhance its electrical conductivity. This process creates either n-type semiconductors (with excess electrons) or p-type semiconductors (with holes or positive charge carriers). The ability to manipulate these properties through doping is crucial for creating various electronic components, including diodes and transistors, which form the foundation of all modern electronic devices.
• Evaluate the impact of semiconductors on technological advancement and how they have transformed various industries.
  • Semiconductors have been pivotal in driving technological advancement across multiple industries, fundamentally changing how we communicate, compute, and harness energy. Their development led to the miniaturization of electronic components, enabling the creation of smaller and more powerful devices like smartphones and laptops. Moreover, semiconductors play a crucial role in renewable energy systems, especially in solar panels, highlighting their importance not only in consumer electronics but also in sustainable technology solutions.

Related terms

Transistor: A semiconductor device that can amplify or switch electronic signals and electrical power, serving as the building block of modern electronic circuits.

Diode: A semiconductor device that allows current to flow in one direction only, commonly used for rectification in power supplies.

Doping: The process of intentionally introducing impurities into a semiconductor to change its electrical properties, enhancing its conductivity.