semiconductormaterialene

Semiconductor materials are substances that have electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. This unique property makes them fundamental to modern electronics. Their conductivity can be manipulated by introducing impurities, a process known as doping, or by controlling external factors like temperature and light.

The most common semiconductor materials are elements from Group 14 of the periodic table, such as silicon (Si) and germanium (Ge). Silicon is by far the most widely used due to its abundance, cost-effectiveness, and stable oxide layer. Compound semiconductors, formed from elements in different groups, like gallium arsenide (GaAs) and indium phosphide (InP), are also important, particularly for applications requiring higher speeds or specific optical properties.

The behavior of electrons within a semiconductor is described by its band structure. In semiconductors, there is a small energy gap between the valence band, where electrons are bound to atoms, and the conduction band, where they are free to move and conduct electricity. Applying energy, such as heat or light, can excite electrons across this gap, increasing conductivity. Doping introduces atoms with more or fewer valence electrons, creating either n-type semiconductors (excess electrons) or p-type semiconductors (electron "holes"). The interface between n-type and p-type materials forms a p-n junction, the basis of diodes and transistors.