What Determines the Magnetic Field Orientation in a P Type Semiconductor Coil?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the factors determining the magnetic field orientation in a P type semiconductor coil when a DC current is applied. It explores the roles of electron movement and positive hole movement in this context, examining whether the magnetic field orientation aligns with conventional current flow or the actual movement of charge carriers.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the magnetic field orientation is determined by the movement of electrons, while others suggest it is based on the direction of positive holes.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of the direction of current flow, stating that it is the current direction that matters, regardless of the type of charge carriers.
  • A participant questions whether the magnetic field orientation in a P type semiconductor would be the same as in a metallic wire, given the difference in charge carriers.
  • Another participant asserts that the voltage source drives the current in the same direction regardless of the type of carriers, implying that the magnetic field orientation remains consistent.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the magnetic field orientation in a P type semiconductor aligns with the direction of electron movement or the flow of positive holes. Multiple competing views remain regarding the influence of charge carriers on magnetic field orientation.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of current flow and magnetic field orientation in different materials, as well as the implications of using the right-hand grip rule in this context.

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P type semiconductor coil...

The magnetic field orientation in a P type semiconductor wire, in which a DC current is flowing will be caused by the direction of movement of the electrons or the positive holes?
 
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Is this a homework problem? If so please show your attempt at a solution.
 


marcusl said:
Is this a homework problem? If so please show your attempt at a solution.

no it is not a homework problem...i would say the magnetic field orientation is given by the electron movement, but i need an exact answer and not opinions...thanks
 
Last edited:


The answer is--it doesn't matter. If holes flow from left to right, the current flow is said to be in the same direction. A current in that direction corresponds to electrons flowing from right to left. It is the direction of current flow that matters, the carriers will sort themselves out.
 


marcusl said:
The answer is--it doesn't matter. If holes flow from left to right, the current flow is said to be in the same direction. A current in that direction corresponds to electrons flowing from right to left. It is the direction of current flow that matters, the carriers will sort themselves out.

Thank you Marcus , but this was an opinion...Considering the real direction of the electrons (negative charges), in a metallic wire conductor with the ends connected to a DC voltage, the magnetic field orientation will correspond to the "right hand grip rule". Now if we replace the metallic wire with a P type semiconductor wire (in which positive holes are the major carriers), the orientation of the B vector will be the same as the metallic wire or will be opposite?
 


The voltage source drives a current in the same direction both times, regardless of the type of carriers involved. Therefore B is the same each time.
 

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