Calculating Fermi Level in Doped Silicon at Room Temperature and 0K

KIn summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of the electron and hole concentrations in a silicon crystal doped with 10^15 cm−3 phosphorus atoms at room temperature and at 0K. The formula n*p=ni^2 is used to calculate the concentrations, with a resulting hole concentration of 10^15 per cm^3 and an electron concentration of 1.96*10^5 electrons per cm^3. However, the calculation of the Fermi level is still unclear, as well as the intrinsic carrier concentration at 0K. Possible equations for calculating the Fermi level are also mentioned, including Ef=[(Ec+Ev)/2]+((KT/2))ln(Nc/N
  • #1
andarr
1
0

Homework Statement


(a)If a silicon crystal is doped with 10^15 cm−3 phosphorus atoms, find out the electron
concentrations and hole concentrations in the silicon at room temperature. Find
out the Fermi level.
(b)Repeat at temperature = 0K

Homework Equations


n*p=ni^2
n=2(2pi(n*)kT)^(3/2)exp-[(Ec-Ef)/(kT)] where (n*) = electron effective mass


The Attempt at a Solution


I have calculated the hole concentration p = 10^15 per cm^3
and the electron concentration n = 1.96*10^5 electrons per cm^3

but I am not sure where to begin for calculating the fermi level. I don't know what to plug in for Ec the conduction band edge energy. For part (b) I am also unable to find ni, the intrinsic carrier concentration of silicon at T = 0K. Any suggestions or insight would be appreciated, thanks in advance.
 
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  • #2
Ef=[(Ec+Ev)/2]+((KT/2))ln(Nc/Nv):if n=p=ni

and i think that you can use Eqs:
Ef==KT*ln{[(1/4)*[e^(Ed/KT)]*([(1+(8Nd/Nc)e^(deltaEd/KT))^(1/2)]-1)}
 
  • #3


I would suggest starting by reviewing the equations and concepts related to the Fermi level in doped semiconductors. The Fermi level is a measure of the energy level at which electrons have a 50% probability of being occupied in a material. In doped semiconductors, the Fermi level is typically located closer to the conduction band edge for n-type doping and closer to the valence band edge for p-type doping.

For part (a), you have correctly calculated the electron and hole concentrations using the equation n*p=ni^2. To calculate the Fermi level, you will need to use the equation Ef=Ec+(kT)ln(n/Nc), where Nc is the effective density of states in the conduction band and T is the temperature in Kelvin. Nc can be calculated using the equation Nc=2(2pi(m*)kT)^(3/2), where (m*) is the effective mass of the electrons in the conduction band. You will also need to know the energy level of the conduction band edge, Ec, which can be found in a table or by using a band structure diagram for silicon.

For part (b), at T=0K, the intrinsic carrier concentration ni is equal to the product of the effective density of states in the conduction band, Nc, and the effective density of states in the valence band, Nv. This can be written as ni^2=Nc*Nv. You can use the equations mentioned above to calculate Nc and Nv, and then solve for ni.

Overall, it is important to carefully review the equations and concepts related to the Fermi level in doped semiconductors and make sure all the necessary values are known or can be calculated. Additionally, it may be helpful to consult with a professor or colleague for further clarification or guidance.
 

1. What is the Fermi level?

The Fermi level, also known as the Fermi energy, is the energy level at which the probability of finding an electron is 50% in a solid at absolute zero temperature.

2. How is the Fermi level calculated?

The Fermi level can be calculated using the equation EF = EVBM + (kB * T * ln(NV/N)) where EVBM is the energy of the valence band maximum, kB is the Boltzmann constant, T is the temperature in Kelvin, NV is the number of valence electrons, and N is the total number of electrons in the solid.

3. Why is calculating the Fermi level important?

The Fermi level is an important concept in solid-state physics as it helps us understand the electronic properties of materials. It is used to determine the electrical conductivity, energy band structure, and other properties of materials.

4. What factors can affect the Fermi level?

The Fermi level can be affected by various factors such as temperature, pressure, and impurities in the material. It can also be influenced by external electric and magnetic fields.

5. Can the Fermi level change in a material?

Yes, the Fermi level can change in a material due to changes in temperature, pressure, or the introduction of impurities. It can also shift due to energy band bending at the surface of a material or under the influence of an external electric field.

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