Semiconductors

Semiconductors

1. Crystal structure of semiconductors

   • The crystal structure of semiconductors is generally complex although it can be visualized by superimposing simpler structures. The most common structure is that of diamond, common to the semiconductors Si and Ge, and that of Zinc-Blende which is that of Gallium Arsenide.

2. Characteristics

   • Materials can exhibit electronegative-like behavior, which means they have the ability to attract electrons. Impurities can drive on the semiconductor material and give it the electronegative capacity. Semiconductors can become conductors, due to the action of impurities, since these action limiting the passage of current and therefore can be presented as insulators.

3. Type N

   • An extrinsic semiconductor that has been doped with electron-donor atoms is called an n-type semiconductor, because most of the charge carriers in the crystal are negative electrons. As silicon is a tetravalent element, the normal crystal structure contains 4 covalent bonds of four valence electrons. In silicon, the most common dopants are group III and group V elements.

4. Type P

   • An extrinsic semiconductor that has been doped with electron acceptor atoms is called a p-type semiconductor, because most of the charge carriers in the crystal are electron holes (positively charged carriers). Pure semiconductor silicon is a tetravalent element, the normal crystal structure contains 4 covalent bonds of four valence electrons. In silicon, the most common dopants are group III and group V elements.

5. PN Semiconductor

   • In short, the diode, PN junction or PN semiconductor, as we want to call it, behaves like a conductor of electric current in direct polarization. As long as it is connected to the power supply or battery, the circuit bulb will shine.

6. Atomic structure

   • Germanium Atomic symbol It is a hard, crystalline, lustrous grayish-white, brittle solid metalloid that retains brightness at ordinary temperatures.
     • Diamond is an example of this type of crystal structure formed by carbon atoms. Silicon and germanium form similar networks These types of elements have intermediate properties between metals and nonmetals.
       • Silicon, Germanium and Gallium Structure properties and applications Silicon Physical Properties Period 3 Density (g/ml) 2.33 Group 14 Boiling Point *C 2,680 Atomic Number 14 Melting Point *C 1,410 Symbol Yes Atomic Weight 28,086
         • The applications of germanium are limited by its high cost and in many cases its replacement by cheaper materials is investigated.

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