Understanding Semiconductors: Their Unique Properties, Classification, and Crucial Role in Electronics
Introduction Semiconductors are vital materials in electronics, bridging the gap between conductors and insulators. Their unique properties make them indispensable for modern electronic devices, such as transistors and diodes. Understanding semiconductors involves exploring their resistivity, temperature coefficients, and how they interact with impurities through doping. Description A semiconductor is a substance whose resistivity lies between that of conductors and insulators. It possesses several essential properties that differentiate it from other materials: Resistivity : Semiconductors have resistivity lower than insulators but higher than conductors. Temperature Coefficient : They exhibit a negative temperature coefficient, meaning their resistance decreases with increasing temperature. Doping : The conductivity of semiconductors can be significantly altered by adding metallic impurities, making this property crucial for their f...