SEMICONDUCTORS Meaning and
Definition
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Semiconductors are materials with electrical conductivity between that of an insulator and a conductor. They possess a unique property of having a conductivity that can be controlled and manipulated through various external factors such as temperature, electric fields, or impurities. These materials are predominantly crystalline in nature and can be classified as either intrinsic or extrinsic semiconductors.
Intrinsic semiconductors are pure materials, such as silicon or germanium, made up solely of atoms that have four valence electrons. Under normal conditions, they have a low concentration of conduction electrons and holes, leading to their inherent insulating behavior. However, when subjected to specific conditions, such as increasing temperature or the addition of external energy, they can be stimulated to become conductive.
Extrinsic semiconductors, on the other hand, are doped with impurities to alter their electrical properties. Doping involves introducing small amounts of impurity atoms, such as phosphorus or boron, which have either more or fewer valence electrons than the host atom. This process increases the density of either extra conduction electrons or holes, leading to higher conductivity. This controlled doping process is crucial in the fabrication of electronic components.
Semiconductors are the backbone of modern electronics. Their ability to control and amplify electrical signals makes them ideal for use in various devices like transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits. These components are fundamental building blocks in the manufacturing of electronic devices ranging from computers and smartphones to televisions and cars.
Overall, semiconductors play a pivotal role in enabling the functioning of many modern-day technologies and are essential in the advancement of our digital society.
Common Misspellings for SEMICONDUCTORS
Etymology of SEMICONDUCTORS
The word "semiconductor" has a combination of two roots: "semi-" and "conductor".
The prefix "semi-" is derived from the Latin word "semis", meaning "half" or "partially". In the context of semiconductors, it refers to the intermediate conductive properties of these materials compared to conductors (which have high conductivity) and insulators (which have low conductivity).
The term "conductor" comes from the Latin word "conducere", which means "to lead" or "to bring together". In the field of physics and electronics, a conductor refers to a material that easily allows the flow of electric current.
Therefore, the etymology of the word "semiconductor" refers to a material that partially conducts electricity, thus having characteristics in between those of conductors and insulators.
Similar spelling words for SEMICONDUCTORS
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