Semiconductor Energy Gap: Silicon Explained

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the energy gap of silicon as a semiconductor and its transition to a conductor under specific conditions. Participants confirm that silicon possesses a defined energy gap between the valence band and conduction band, which is characteristic of semiconductors. However, they highlight that mechanical strains or lattice distortions can alter the band structure, potentially eliminating the energy gap and transforming silicon into a conductor. This phenomenon underscores the dynamic nature of semiconductor properties based on external influences.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of semiconductor physics
  • Knowledge of band theory in solid-state physics
  • Familiarity with mechanical strain effects on materials
  • Basic concepts of electrical conductivity
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of mechanical strain on semiconductor materials
  • Explore the band structure of silicon under varying conditions
  • Learn about the transition mechanisms from semiconductors to conductors
  • Investigate other materials with similar properties to silicon
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Students, researchers, and professionals in materials science, electrical engineering, and semiconductor technology who are interested in the properties and applications of silicon and other semiconductors.

alphard
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Hello everyone,

I have a quick question about the energy of the silicon. I know that, as a semiconductor, the silicon has an energy gap between the valence band and the conduction band. But according to this image , http://www.google.fr/imgres?imgurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nano-ou.net%2FImages%2Fsilicon_split.png&imgrefurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nano-ou.net%2FeduNanomaterials2.aspx&h=443&w=665&tbnid=lroOZttxuLz6EM%3A&zoom=1&docid=bVNjJ0Q6l2ncJM&ei=IW8MVYGONYPYOJ-ygeAO&tbm=isch&iact=rc&uact=3&dur=1859&page=1&start=0&ndsp=25&ved=0CCQQrQMwAQ , we see that when the interatomic distance between two atoms of silicon decreases, there is an interval where there is no more "forbidden energy gap" (where the two grey curves are connected). Does that mean that at this point, we have a conductor and not a semiconductor anymore ? I mean, by definition, a semiconductor has an energy gap, not as large as an insulator, but the gap exists. So, without any gap, it should by a conductor.

Thanks for your answers
 
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Well I am not sure, but there are semiconductors that when are exposed to mechanical strains, or other types of lattice distortions, their band structure changes, and sometimes they transit from semiconductors to conductors. So yes, you can have a material that is a semiconductor in normal conditions and become a conductor under certain conditions.
 
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