Determining the resistivity of intrinsic Germanium

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the resistivity of intrinsic Germanium, focusing on the relationship between conductivity and temperature. Participants are examining the implications of a specific formula and its components, including the Boltzmann constant and band gap energy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of conductivity from resistivity and the validity of the constant used in the formula. There are attempts to simplify the problem by taking the ratio of conductivities at different temperatures. Questions arise regarding the correctness of the formula and the interpretation of the negative sign in the exponent.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing guidance on algebraic manipulation and unit checks. Some express confusion over the formula's components and their implications, while others suggest clarifying assumptions and definitions. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential issues with units and the need for careful handling of constants, indicating that there may be missing information or assumptions that need to be clarified.

jisbon
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Homework Statement
At room temperature (300 K), the bandgap energy and resistivity of
intrinsic germanium is 0.67 eV and 0.455 ohm/m, respectively.
Determine the resistivity of the intrinsic germanium at 150 °C. Assume
that, at room temperature, the electron and hole mobilities are 0.14 and
0.05, respectively. The bandgap is insensitive to the temperature.
Relevant Equations
Shown below.
Hi.
Since,
1580648252211.png

I can find conductivity by taking the reciprocal of resistivity, in this case, 1/0.455
Hence, I will end up with:
##\frac{1}{0.455}=C(300)^{-3/2}e^{(\frac{-0.67}{2(1.38*10^{-23})(300)})}##
However, my C value seems to be invalid in this case.
May I know what may went wrong here? Thanks
 
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take the ratio of the conductivities at the two twmperatures and the constant will drop out...
 
Dr Transport said:
take the ratio of the conductivities at the two twmperatures and the constant will drop out...
The ratio seems to be undefined too:
1580650920626.png
 
Not only that, but you should really do the ratio algebraically first before plugging in all those numbers. Give σ and T different subscripts, while everything else is common to both.

It is easier to deal with, and it is why we try to teach the students to do at the General Physics level.

Zz.
 
Dr Transport said:
look at the magnitude of your exponent...
The formula states that it has a negative sign though. Is the formula wrong in this case..? Sorry
 
jisbon said:
The formula states that it has a negative sign though. Is the formula wrong in this case..? Sorry
[itex]\approx 10^{23}[/itex]
 
Isn't the Boltzmann constant 10 to the power of - 23?
Dr Transport said:
[itex]\approx 10^{23}[/itex]
 
  • #10
your Boltzmann constant is in [itex]JK^{-1}[/itex] and your band gap is in [itex]eV[/itex].
 

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