Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the definition of electrical mobility, particularly the relationship between drift velocity and electric field strength. Participants explore the implications of the definition, especially in the context of charge carriers such as electrons and holes, and the interpretation of signs in vector quantities.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- One participant questions the definition of electrical mobility as always resulting in a positive velocity parallel to the electric field, seeking clarification on how this applies to different charge carriers.
- Another participant asserts that electrical mobility can be negative in semiconductors, indicating that the sign of mobility depends on the type of charge carrier (holes vs. electrons).
- A third participant notes that the Wikipedia article does not use vector notation and suggests that the definition refers to magnitudes, which are always positive, aligning with Kittel's reference book.
- One participant acknowledges the need for specificity regarding the cancellation of the negative sign due to the relative directions of velocity and electric field.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the interpretation of electrical mobility, particularly regarding the sign and vector nature of the quantities involved. There is no consensus on the implications of these definitions.
Contextual Notes
Some participants highlight limitations in the Wikipedia source, suggesting it lacks rigor. The discussion also reflects varying interpretations of vector versus scalar relationships in the context of mobility.