Understanding Charge Carriers in Semiconductor Junctions

In summary, semiconductors are materials with electrical conductivity between that of conductors and insulators, made of silicon or germanium and controlled through doping. They are used in everyday devices such as computers and smartphones, and have specific uses like microprocessors and sensors. Diodes and transistors are two common types of semiconductors, with the latter being made up of two connected diodes. Semiconductors are constantly advancing technology, allowing for smaller, faster, and more efficient electronic devices and driving research and development in the industry.
  • #1
twinklealices
7
0
in any junction diode or transistor...i don't understand the difference between minority charge carriers, majority charge carriers and the immobile charges that you see in the depletion region ..please explain??
 
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  • #2
If you need the definition of those terms, wikipedia will serve.
I think you want an explanation of some process, though.
If so, please be MUCH more specific about what you're looking for.
 

1. What are semiconductors and how do they work?

Semiconductors are materials that have electrical conductivity between that of conductors and insulators. They are typically made of silicon or germanium and have a crystalline structure. The conductivity of semiconductors can be controlled by the addition of impurities, a process known as doping. This allows them to act as either conductors or insulators, making them useful for creating electronic devices.

2. What is the difference between a diode and a transistor?

A diode is a semiconductor device with two terminals that allows current to flow in only one direction. It is commonly used to convert AC to DC current. A transistor, on the other hand, is a semiconductor device with three terminals that can be used as an amplifier or switch. It is made of two diodes connected back-to-back, and the flow of current through one diode controls the flow through the other.

3. How are semiconductors used in everyday devices?

Semiconductors are used in a wide variety of everyday devices, including computers, smartphones, TVs, and cars. They are essential components in electronic circuits, allowing for the control and flow of electrical signals. Some specific uses of semiconductors include microprocessors, memory chips, and sensors for temperature, pressure, and light.

4. What is the difference between an integrated circuit and a microchip?

An integrated circuit (IC) is a small electronic device that contains a large number of interconnected components, such as transistors, resistors, and capacitors, all etched onto a single semiconductor material. A microchip, on the other hand, refers to a small piece of silicon that contains electronic circuits and is used as a component in an electronic device. In other words, a microchip is a type of integrated circuit.

5. How are semiconductors advancing technology?

Semiconductors are constantly advancing technology by enabling the development of smaller, faster, and more efficient electronic devices. As technology advances, the demand for smaller and more powerful semiconductors increases. This drives research and development in the semiconductor industry, leading to new materials, processes, and devices. Semiconductors also play a critical role in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things.

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