Solid State Physics: Hall Effect + Semiconductor Lab

In summary, the conversation discusses the Hall Effect lab, with the focus on identifying potential errors and challenges encountered during the experiment. These include difficulties with adjusting the potentiometer and variations in the magnetic field strength, which could impact the accuracy of the data collected. Additionally, the conversation mentions some thermo-magnetic effects associated with the Hall Effect and the importance of using a consistent pole for accurate measurements. The speaker also suggests explaining the calculation of errors for better understanding of the results.
  • #1
Turion
145
2

Homework Statement



The lab is attached. I've also attached the pre-lab just for the diagram.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Can anyone think of some good errors for this lab?

We ended up with ~80% error.

I've thought of two:
1. Adjusting the potentiometer so that the width of the conductor would start with 0 voltage was very difficult.
2. The magnetic field was strongest in the center but was weak on the sides of the wafer. This caused some uncertainty.
 

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  • #2
Turion said:

Homework Statement



The lab is attached. I've also attached the pre-lab just for the diagram.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



Can anyone think of some good errors for this lab?

We ended up with ~80% error.

I've thought of two:
1. Adjusting the potentiometer so that the width of the conductor would start with 0 voltage was very difficult.
2. The magnetic field was strongest in the center but was weak on the sides of the wafer. This caused some uncertainty.
There are some thermo-magnetic effects associated with the Hall Effect, namely The Nernst Effect, the Righi-Leduc Effect, and the Ettingshausen Effect.

Some other errors I remember from having done the Hall Effect are mostly with regard to the magnet. Not using a consistent pole will result in non-consistent data. As you have pointed out, the field is strongest in the center and you can estimate the effect of this error by measuring the magnetic field at different points around the magnet.

Explaining exactly what error you're calculating and how you calculated it might be helpful.
 

1. What is the Hall Effect?

The Hall Effect is a phenomenon in which a magnetic field applied perpendicular to an electric current in a conductor will cause a voltage across the width of the conductor. This voltage is known as the Hall voltage and is proportional to the strength of the magnetic field and the current in the conductor.

2. How does the Hall Effect relate to Solid State Physics?

The Hall Effect is an important tool in studying the properties of solid state materials, particularly semiconductors. It allows us to measure the type and concentration of charge carriers in a material, as well as its electrical conductivity and mobility.

3. What is the purpose of a Semiconductor Lab in Solid State Physics?

A Semiconductor Lab is used to study the electrical and optical properties of semiconductors. These properties are crucial in understanding the behavior of electronic devices, such as transistors, diodes, and solar cells, which are made from semiconducting materials.

4. What are some common experiments conducted in a Semiconductor Lab?

Some common experiments in a Semiconductor Lab include the measurement of electrical conductivity and resistivity of various semiconductor materials, determination of band gap energy, and studying the effects of temperature and impurities on the electrical properties of semiconductors.

5. How does the Hall Effect play a role in semiconductor device design?

The Hall Effect is used in the design and development of various semiconductor devices. It is used to determine the type and concentration of charge carriers in a material, which is crucial in designing and optimizing the performance of electronic devices. For example, the Hall Effect is used in the design of Hall effect sensors, which are used in many electronic devices for measuring magnetic fields and currents.

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