SEMICONDUCTOR PHYSICS

A-level Physics (Advancing Physics)/Semiconductors

A semiconductor has a conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. They
are less conductive than metals, but differ from metals in that, as a semiconductor heats
up, its conductivity rises. ... Examples of semiconductors include silicon and germanium.

What is semiconductor with example?

Materials that have the resistance levels between those of a conductor and an insulator are referred
to as semiconductors. They are quite common, found in almost all electronic devices. Good
examples of semiconductor materials are germanium, selenium, and silicon.

What is semiconductor and its type?

Semiconductors are the materials which have a conductivity between conductors (generally
metals) and non-conductors or insulators (such ceramics). Semiconductors can be compounds such
as gallium arsenide or pure elements, such as germanium or silicon.

What is semiconductor used for?

The high mobility of semiconductors makes them best basic materials for use in advanced
electronics and communications. Semiconductors are used to fabricate chips for every electronic
device, including computers, cell phones, iPods, BlackBerries, and GPSs.

How does a semiconductor work?

In a silicon lattice, all silicon atoms bond perfectly to four neighbors, leaving no free electrons to
conduct electric current. This makes a silicon crystal an insulator rather than a conductor. ... All of
the outer electrons in a silicon crystal are involved in perfect covalent bonds, so they can't move
around.

How does a semiconductor work?

In a silicon lattice, all silicon atoms bond perfectly to four neighbors, leaving no free electrons to
conduct electric current. This makes a silicon crystal an insulator rather than a conductor. ... All of
the outer electrons in a silicon crystal are involved in perfect covalent bonds, so they can't move
around.