Exploring Electron Flow in N- and P-Type Silicon

In summary: When an N-type silicon and a P-type silicon are joined together electrons from the n-type diffuse into the p-type. Now the p-type becomes negatively charges and the n-type positively charged. Forward biasing electrons are forced from the n region into the p region.
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When an N-type silicon and a P-type silicon are joined together electrons from the n-type diffuse into the p-type. Now the p-type becomes negatively charges and the n-type positively charged.
With forward biasing electrons are forced from the n region into the p region.
What is it that makes the electrons move from the holes (which were filled up when the two pieces of silicon were joined together) so that the electrons which are being pushed from the n-type can then fill the holes? Shouldn't the electrons which are filling holes in the p-type repel the electrons since they are the same sign?

When the current is negatively biased does this mean the + terminal (where electrons are flowing from) is connected to the p-type silicon and when the electrons reach the holes they can't go any further because there's no holes on the other side for them to jump into?

Also, how can u tell if in a diagram they are using conventional current or electron current?
In my physics book there is a diagram that shows a wire connected to the negative side of the battery which is connected to the diode and it says the electrons are moving from N to P with N on the right.
 
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The electric field applied across the pn junction motivates the electrons to move from the n-type to the p-type. When the junction is forward biased, there is no depletion region and the electrons flow easily. When the junction is reverse-biased, the depletion region grows and blows the flow of electrons (except for a tiny current called leakage).

When reverse-biased, the higher voltage is applied to the n-side of the junction.

Conventional current is used everywhere in electrical engineering, unless otherwise specified.

- Warren
 
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1. What is the purpose of exploring electron flow in N- and P-type silicon?

The purpose of exploring electron flow in N- and P-type silicon is to understand how electrons move through these types of semiconductors, which are commonly used in electronic devices. By studying electron flow, scientists can gain insights into the behavior and properties of these materials, which can then be applied to improve the design and performance of electronic devices.

2. How does the electron flow differ between N- and P-type silicon?

In N-type silicon, the majority of electrons are negatively charged and move freely through the material. In P-type silicon, the majority of electrons are positively charged "holes" and move in the opposite direction. Additionally, the density of electrons and holes varies between N- and P-type silicon, which affects the overall conductivity of the material.

3. What factors affect electron flow in N- and P-type silicon?

There are several factors that can affect electron flow in N- and P-type silicon. These include temperature, electric field, and impurities in the material. At higher temperatures, more electrons can break free from their atoms and contribute to the flow. An applied electric field can also influence the movement of electrons. Impurities, such as dopants, can alter the number of electrons or holes in the material, affecting its conductivity.

4. How is electron flow measured in N- and P-type silicon?

Electron flow in N- and P-type silicon can be measured using techniques such as Hall effect measurements, which involve applying a magnetic field to the material and measuring the resulting voltage. Other methods include using a four-point probe to measure the resistance of the material, or using a transistor to measure the current flow through the material.

5. What practical applications can be derived from exploring electron flow in N- and P-type silicon?

Understanding electron flow in N- and P-type silicon has many practical applications in the field of electronics. This knowledge can be used to design and improve electronic devices such as transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits. It can also inform the development of new semiconductor materials with improved properties and performance. Additionally, the study of electron flow can help in the development of renewable energy technologies, such as solar cells, which rely on the behavior of electrons in semiconductors to generate electricity.

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