Semiconductors are materials that have properties between conductors and insulators. They have the ability to conduct electricity under certain conditions, but also have the ability to act as an insulator under other conditions. This is due to the presence of a band gap in their energy levels, which allows for the controlled flow of electrons.
Semiconductors are used in a wide range of electronic devices, including transistors, diodes, solar cells, and integrated circuits. They are also used in various sensors, such as in cameras, thermometers, and pressure sensors.
Semiconductors are typically made from silicon, which is purified and then formed into a crystal structure. The process of creating semiconductors involves various techniques such as doping, which introduces impurities to alter the conductivity of the material.
Intrinsic semiconductors are pure semiconducting materials, such as silicon or germanium, which have a balanced number of electrons and holes (electron deficiencies) in their energy bands. Extrinsic semiconductors have been doped with impurities to alter their electrical properties and increase their conductivity.
Semiconductors play a critical role in modern technology, powering everything from computers and smartphones to renewable energy sources such as solar panels. They have also enabled the development of advanced technologies such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence.