Why charges travel faster in semiconductor than in metallic conductor?

AI Thread Summary
Charges travel faster in semiconductors than in metallic conductors due to differences in charge carrier density. The equation I = nAve indicates that drift velocity (v) is influenced by the number density (n) of charge carriers. In semiconductors, the lower density allows for higher drift velocities compared to the denser metallic conductors. This results in semiconductors having a higher mobility of charge carriers, contributing to faster charge transport. Understanding these relationships is crucial for analyzing the performance of different materials in electronic applications.
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Homework Statement


"Use the equation I=nAve to justify why charges travel faster in semiconductor than in metallic conductor. Assume that the dimensions and current are the same. "



Homework Equations


I=nAve
I know I = current, n = number density, A= cross sectional area v= drift velocity and e = charge of electrons


The Attempt at a Solution


Is metallic conductor denser than semiconductor, hence the drift velocity is lower? Thanks in advance.
 
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Thanks a lot.
 

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