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Notes on Semiconductor Theory

The document discusses semiconductor theory, focusing on PN junctions, energy band diagrams, intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors. It explains how PN junctions allow current flow in one direction, the significance of energy band diagrams in understanding electron movement, and the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors. Key concepts include the roles of majority and minority carriers in n-type and p-type semiconductors.

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13 views

Notes on Semiconductor Theory

The document discusses semiconductor theory, focusing on PN junctions, energy band diagrams, intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors. It explains how PN junctions allow current flow in one direction, the significance of energy band diagrams in understanding electron movement, and the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors. Key concepts include the roles of majority and minority carriers in n-type and p-type semiconductors.

Uploaded by

ddgg15032020
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Notes on Semiconductor Theory

PN Junction
• Definition: A PN junction is formed by joining p-type and n-type semiconductors.

• Function: Allows current flow in one direction while blocking it in the reverse direction.

• Formation:

1. Diffusion of electrons from n-region to p-region creates a depletion region.

2. Electric field forms due to the separation of charges.

• Forward Bias: Positive terminal connected to the p-side reduces the depletion width, allowing
current to flow.

• Reverse Bias: Positive terminal connected to the n-side increases the depletion width, blocking
current flow.

• Example: Used in rectifiers to convert AC to DC.

Question: Explain why the current flows in forward bias but not in reverse bias.

Answer: In forward bias, the applied voltage reduces the depletion layer, allowing charge carriers to flow. In
reverse bias, the voltage increases the depletion layer, preventing carrier flow.

Energy Band Diagram


• Purpose: Represents the energy levels of electrons in a material.

• PN Junction Band Diagram:

1. Before contact: Separate Fermi levels for p-type and n-type.

2. After contact: Fermi level aligns; depletion region forms with a band bending effect.

• Band Gap:

o For silicon: ~1.1 eV.

o For germanium: ~0.7 eV.

• Applications: Explains the working of diodes, transistors, and other semiconductor devices.
Question: How does the energy band diagram change in forward bias?

Answer: In forward bias, the bands on the n-side and p-side tilt downward, reducing the potential
barrier and allowing current flow.

Intrinsic Semiconductors
• Definition: Pure semiconductors without impurities.

• Properties:

1. Equal number of electrons and holes.

2. Low conductivity at room temperature.

3. Conductivity increases with temperature.

• Example: Pure silicon lattice.

Question: Why is conductivity low in intrinsic semiconductors at room temperature?

Answer: Few electrons gain enough energy to jump from the valence band to the conduction band, resulting in
low carrier concentration.

Extrinsic Semiconductors
• Definition: Semiconductors doped with impurities to increase conductivity.

• Types:

o n-Type:

▪ Doped with pentavalent elements (e.g., phosphorus).

▪ Donor atoms add extra electrons.

▪ Majority carriers: Electrons.

o p-Type:

▪ Doped with trivalent elements (e.g., boron).

▪ Acceptor atoms create holes.

▪ Majority carriers: Holes.

• Applications: Used in diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits.


Question: Compare n-type and p-type semiconductors in terms of majority and minority carriers.

Answer: In n-type, majority carriers are electrons, and minority carriers are holes. In p-type, majority
carriers are holes, and minority carriers are electrons.

Summary of Key Concepts

• PN Junction: Basic building block of semiconductor devices.

• Energy Band Diagram: Explains electron movement and potential barriers.

• Intrinsic Semiconductors: Pure, with equal electrons and holes.

• Extrinsic Semiconductors: Doped, with enhanced conductivity.

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