Ohmic vs Rectifying Contact: N+ & N-Type Semiconductors

Thread starter PF123
Start date Feb 23, 2015
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Contact P-n junction

In summary, Ohmic contact and rectifying contact refer to two different types of electrical contacts. Ohmic contact has a linear current-voltage curve, while rectifying contact has a non-linear curve. In N+ semiconductors, both types of contacts are possible, but in N-Type semiconductors, only rectifying contact is possible. These contacts are used to control the flow of current in semiconductor devices, with ohmic contacts being used in resistors and rectifying contacts being used in diodes. The type of contact achieved is dependent on the type of semiconductor material used, and they have various applications in devices such as transistors, solar cells, and LEDs.

Feb 23, 2015

PF123

Hello Every body!

As shown in below, If i join a heavily doped n+ semiconductor with an ordinary n-type semiconductor,

What is the type of contact that forms between n+and n-type semiconductors ?
is it Ohmic contact or rectifying contact ??

Mar 27, 2015

marcusl

Science Advisor

Gold Member

it's Ohmic.

What is the difference between Ohmic and Rectifying Contact?

Ohmic contact refers to a type of electrical contact between two materials where the current-voltage (I-V) curve is linear. This means that the resistance remains constant regardless of the voltage applied. On the other hand, rectifying contact refers to a contact where the I-V curve is non-linear, meaning that the resistance changes with the voltage applied.

How do Ohmic and Rectifying Contacts behave in N+ and N-Type Semiconductors?

In N+ semiconductors, both Ohmic and Rectifying Contacts are possible. Ohmic Contact can be achieved by using highly doped (highly conductive) materials, while Rectifying Contact can be achieved by using lightly doped (less conductive) materials. In N-Type semiconductors, only Rectifying Contact is possible, as the material itself has a low concentration of charge carriers, making it difficult to achieve Ohmic Contact.

What is the purpose of using Ohmic and Rectifying Contacts in semiconductors?

The purpose of using these types of contacts is to control the flow of current in a semiconductor device. Ohmic Contacts are used in devices where a constant flow of current is desired, such as in resistors. Rectifying Contacts, on the other hand, are used in devices where current flow needs to be controlled, such as in diodes.

Can Ohmic and Rectifying Contacts be switched between N+ and N-Type semiconductors?

No, the type of contact that can be achieved is dependent on the type of semiconductor material used. Ohmic Contact can only be achieved in N+ semiconductors, while Rectifying Contact can only be achieved in N-Type semiconductors.

What are some applications of Ohmic and Rectifying Contacts in semiconductors?

Ohmic Contacts are commonly used in resistors, transistors, and interconnects in integrated circuits. Rectifying Contacts are used in various semiconductor devices such as diodes, solar cells, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs).