Determining the resistivity of intrinsic Germanium

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The discussion centers on calculating the conductivity of intrinsic Germanium using the resistivity value of 0.455. The user encounters issues with an invalid constant and undefined ratios when attempting to derive conductivity at different temperatures. Participants suggest performing algebraic manipulations before substituting numerical values to simplify the calculations. There are also concerns regarding the accuracy of the formula, specifically the sign of the exponent and the consistency of units between the Boltzmann constant and the band gap energy. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of careful algebraic handling and unit consistency in calculations.
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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
\approx 10^{23}
 
Isn't the boltzman constant 10 to the power of - 23?
Dr Transport said:
\approx 10^{23}
 
  • #10
your Boltzmann constant is in JK^{-1} and your band gap is in eV.
 
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