Semiconductors for undergraduate and graduate

In summary, semiconductors are materials with intermediate conductivity between that of conductors and insulators, commonly used in electronic devices. They work by having a band gap that allows for controlled flow of electrons when energy is added. Silicon is the most commonly used semiconductor material due to its abundance and properties. The main difference between semiconductors and conductors is their conductivity and the presence of a band gap. Potential future applications of semiconductors include advanced solar cells, high-speed computing, and flexible electronics, with ongoing research for even more possibilities.
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mertcan
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hi, I would like to be bursting with semiconductors' topic, I aim to know all it's theory and applications, also see all derivations of it's formulas, so Could you give me some suggestions to comprehend this topic well?
 
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Electromagnetism, Statistical and Thermal Physics, Quantum Mechanics to start...
 

1. What are semiconductors?

Semiconductors are materials that have a conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. This means that they can conduct electricity, but not as easily as metals. They are commonly used in electronic devices such as transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits.

2. How do semiconductors work?

Semiconductors work by having a band gap, which is the energy gap between the valence band (where electrons are held tightly) and the conduction band (where electrons are free to move and conduct electricity). When energy is added to the semiconductor, for example by applying a voltage, electrons can jump from the valence band to the conduction band and flow as electric current.

3. What is the most commonly used semiconductor material?

The most commonly used semiconductor material is silicon. It is abundant, relatively inexpensive, and has good electrical and thermal properties. Silicon is the basis for most integrated circuits and is used in a wide range of electronic devices.

4. What is the difference between a semiconductor and a conductor?

The main difference between a semiconductor and a conductor is their conductivity. Conductors have high conductivity and allow electricity to flow easily, while semiconductors have lower conductivity and require energy to be added in order to conduct electricity. Additionally, the band gap in semiconductors allows for more precise control of the flow of electrons.

5. What are some potential future applications of semiconductors?

Semiconductors have a wide range of potential future applications, some of which include advanced solar cells, high-speed computing, and flexible electronics. They are also being explored for use in quantum computing and as a replacement for traditional silicon in certain electronic devices. Research and development in the field of semiconductors is ongoing and there are constantly new and exciting possibilities being discovered.

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