Pentavalent Elements & Doping Semiconductors: Why Not 6 Valence Electrons?

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SUMMARY

Pentavalent elements are preferred for doping semiconductors due to their ability to create n-type materials, enhancing conductivity. In contrast, elements with six valence electrons, typically found in II-VI semiconductors, lead to larger band gaps, resulting in poor semiconductor performance. The discussion highlights the importance of balancing ionic character and band gap size to maintain effective semiconductor properties. Understanding these principles is crucial for semiconductor design and application.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of semiconductor physics
  • Knowledge of n-type and p-type doping
  • Familiarity with band gap theory
  • Basic concepts of ionic character in materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of III-V and II-VI semiconductors
  • Explore the role of band gaps in semiconductor applications
  • Learn about the effects of doping on semiconductor conductivity
  • Investigate the ionic character of various semiconductor materials
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Students and professionals in materials science, electrical engineering, and semiconductor technology who are interested in the principles of doping and semiconductor performance.

krishnenduk
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Doping doubt...

Why pentavalent elements are used in doping semiconductors why not an element with 6 valence electrons?
 
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Here's a list of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_semiconductor_materials#Group_II-VI">II-VI semiconductors</a> where elements with 6 valence electrons are used.

Maybe someone who knows more about semiconductors specifically can answer your question, but my guess is that once you get to II-VI semiconductors the band gaps start to become large due to the stronger ionic character relative to III-V's. If the band gap is too large, you wind up with a good insulator or a bad semiconductor.
 

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