Properties of Semiconductors

1. Conductors are materials which allow current to flow through them easily. This is because
conductors have free electrons which can drift between their atoms. Hence, conductors have
low resistance. Most metals such as silver, copper and aluminium are good conductors of
electricity.
2. Insulators are materials which do not conduct electrical current. Most non-metals such as
rubber, polythene and perspex are good insulators. However, carbon is an exception
3. A semiconductor is a material whose resistance is between those of good conductors and those
of good insulators. Silicon, germanium, boron, tellurium and selenium are some examples of
pure semiconductors (intrinsic semiconductors). Lead sulphide, gallium arsenide and indium
arsenide are examples of compound semiconductors(extrinsic semiconductors).

Doping process

The process of adding impurities to the semiconductor in order to conduct electricity is called
doping process.
p-type n-type
1. Addition of atoms with less valence 1. Addition of atoms with extra valence
electrons in order to create a shortage electrons in order to create an excess
of electrons. of electrons in the crystal bonds.
2. Positive holes are formed that can 2. Negative electrons are available that
transport current can transport current.
3. The dopant atoms are called acceptors 3. The dopant atoms are called donors
because they accept electrons from because they donate electrons to
the nearby atoms. nearby atoms.
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Semiconductor Diodes

A Diode is a two-terminal device that acts as a one way conductor that is it permits current flow in only
one direction. The most basic type of diode is the p-n junction diode.
 Connect negative end or cathode of the diode to the negative
terminal of the cell. The lamb lights, a current flow and this is
called forward biasing. The diode conducts as electrons and
holes are able to cross over the junction between p and n
region and complete the circuit.
 Reverse the connection to the diode as shown below where
its negative end is joined to the positive terminal of the cell,
this is called reverse biasing. The diode now acts as an
insulator; no current can flow through the diode.