SEMICONDUCTOR Meaning and
Definition
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A semiconductor is a material that possesses the unique property of conducting electricity under certain conditions while acting as an insulator under other conditions. It is a solid-state material, typically composed of elements from groups III and V or groups II and VI of the periodic table, which have a specific atomic structure that allows for the control of conductivity.
Semiconductors exhibit a behavior between that of conductors and insulators, making them highly desirable for use in electronic devices. The conductivity of a semiconductor can be altered by applying an electric field, heat, or light, which allows for the control and manipulation of electric currents. This property forms the basis for the operation of numerous electronic components, including transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits.
The fundamental building block of a semiconductor is the atom, which consists of a nucleus surrounded by electrons. The valence electrons, which are responsible for the conduction of electricity, have a specific energy level within the atom. In a perfect crystal lattice structure, these valence electrons move freely without any external interference. The behavior of these electrons makes semiconductors unique, as they neither conduct electricity as efficiently as conductors nor inhibit it like insulators.
In summary, a semiconductor is a solid-state material with a specific atomic structure that exhibits a varying level of conductivity, making it a crucial component in modern electronics and technology.
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Etymology of SEMICONDUCTOR
The word "semiconductor" originated from the combination of two Latin roots: "semi" meaning "half" and "ductor" meaning "conductor". Semiconductors are materials that have electrical conductivity between that of an insulator (non-conductor) and a conductor. The term was first used in the early 20th century to describe substances that exhibited this partial conduction behavior.
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