UNIT | tyre cty semiconductors ‘Many of the control systems used in today’s ‘Sedustry are operated by solid-state devices as well, ‘ss magnetic and mechanical devices. If an electri- ‘Gx is to install and troubleshoot control systems, ‘Ge must have an understanding of electronic con- ‘sol devices as well as relays and motor starters. Solid-state devices, such as diodes and tran- ‘sSstors, are often referred to as semiconductors. The word, semiconductor, refers to the type of mate- Saal used to make solid-state devices. To under- ‘sand how solid-state devices operate, one must ‘Sex study the atomic structure of conductors, in- saltors, and semiconductors. ‘CONDUCTORS ET: Conductors are materials that provide easy paths for the flow of electrons. Conductors are generally made from materials that have large, beavy atoms. For this reason, most conductors are metals. The best electrical conductors are silver, copper and aluminum. Conductors are also made from materials that ave only one or two valence electrons in their at- coms. (Valence electrons are the electrons in the outer orbit of an atom, figure 2-1.) An atom that bas only one valence electron makes the best elec- Semiconductors After studying this unit, the student will be able to: + Discuss the atomic structure of conductors, insulators, and + Discuss how a P-type material is produced + Discuss how an N-type material is produced trical conductor because the electron is held loosely in orbit and is easily given up for current, flow. INSULATORS ae ae ccc et Insulators are generally made from light- weight materials that have small atoms. The outer orbits of the atoms of insulating materials are filled or almost filled with valence electrons. This means VALENCE ELECTRON FIGURE 24 Atom of a conductor 9