If you want to dope GaAs to make a p-type semiconductor with an element to replace As, which element(s) would you pick?

Short Answer

Expert verified
To dope GaAs and create a p-type semiconductor, we can use elements from group 14 of the periodic table to replace Arsenic (As). Suitable candidates include Germanium (Ge) and Silicon (Si). However, Germanium is preferred over Silicon due to its similar lattice size, resulting in better crystal quality when incorporated into GaAs.

Step by step solution

01

Understand p-type semiconductors

A p-type semiconductor is a type of semiconductor that has been doped with elements that create an excess of positive charge carriers (holes). This is achieved by introducing impurity elements that have one less electron in their outer shells than the semiconductor material they are replacing.
02

Identify the positions of Gallium and Arsenic in the Periodic Table

Gallium (Ga) belongs to group 13 and period 4, whereas Arsenic (As) belongs to group 15 and period 4 in the periodic table. Since Arsenic is the element that will be replaced, we need to find an element that has the ability to produce the p-type semiconductor effect when replacing As in GaAs.
03

Find the appropriate element to create a p-type semiconductor

To create a p-type semiconductor, we need to find an element that has one less electron in its outer shell compared to Arsenic. Finding an element in group 14 (right next to group 15) and within the same period or close to the period will help in achieving the desired effect. In this case, Germanium (Ge) is found within group 14 and is in period 4. This makes it a suitable candidate for replacing As in GaAs. Another element that could be used is Silicon (Si) which also belongs to group 14 and period 3. However, it is important to note that the lattice mismatch between GaAs and Si is larger, which may affect the crystal quality of the resulting material.
04

Conclusion

When doping GaAs to create a p-type semiconductor, Germanium (Ge) or Silicon (Si) can be used to replace Arsenic (As) as an appropriate dopant. Germanium is preferred due to its similar lattice size, which can lead to better crystal quality when incorporated into GaAs.

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