Contact pontential for a semiconductor

Engineering
Thread starter Marcis231
Start date Sep 11, 2020
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Contact Semiconductor

In summary, contact potential for a semiconductor is the energy difference between the Fermi level of the semiconductor and the contacting material at the interface. It can be measured using techniques such as Kelvin probe force microscopy, photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning tunneling microscopy. The contact potential is affected by factors such as work function, doping levels, and interface type, and it plays a crucial role in determining the behavior and performance of semiconductor devices. Contact potential can be controlled through various methods, and proper management is essential for optimizing device performance.

Sep 11, 2020

Marcis231

Homework Statement: SK doping stratified where the concentration of donor atoms = 10^2 acceptor atomic concentration, acceptor atomic concentration of 1 acceptor atom per 108 Ge atoms. Calculate the contact potential Vo at 300oK if it is known that the atomic concentration of Ge is 4.4 x 10^28 atoms⁄ m3 and the atomic concentration of intrinsic = ni = 2.5 x 10^13 and the potential VT = 0.0259 Volt. The acceptor atomic concentration is 10^-8 Ge atom concentration.

Relevant Equations: I don't know which formula that i should use for this question

Anyone can help me, which formula I should use for this question?

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Sep 11, 2020

Charles Link

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One thing that might help others reading this is that I think you have a typo: ## 108 ## in the second line should be ## 10^8 ##, if I'm not mistaken.

1. What is contact potential for a semiconductor?

The contact potential for a semiconductor is the difference in the Fermi level between the semiconductor and the contacting material. It is a measure of the energy barrier that exists at the interface between the two materials.

2. How is contact potential measured?

Contact potential can be measured using techniques such as Kelvin probe force microscopy or photoelectron spectroscopy. These methods involve measuring the work function of the materials in contact and calculating the difference between them.

3. What factors affect the contact potential of a semiconductor?

The contact potential of a semiconductor can be affected by factors such as the type of semiconductor material, the type of contacting material, the surface conditions of both materials, and any external electric fields present.

4. Why is contact potential important in semiconductor devices?

Contact potential plays a crucial role in determining the behavior and performance of semiconductor devices. It affects the flow of charge carriers at the interface, which can impact the device's electrical properties and functionality.

5. Can contact potential be controlled or manipulated?

Yes, contact potential can be controlled and manipulated through various methods such as surface treatments, doping, and using different contacting materials. This allows for the optimization of device performance and functionality.