Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 1: Problem 7

Describe the difference between \(n\) -type and \(p\) -type semiconductor materials.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The difference lies in the majority carriers and the doping elements. \(n\)-type semiconductors have electrons as majority carriers and are doped with group V elements, while \(p\)-type semiconductors have holes as majority carriers and are doped with group III elements.

Step by step solution

01

Define \(n\)-type semiconductor

\(n\)-type semiconductors are obtained when group V elements like Phosphorus, Arsenic are added to a group IV semiconductor like Silicon. It results in more electrons than holes and hence named 'n' (negative) type.
02

Define \(p\)-type semiconductor

\(p\)-type semiconductors are achieved when group III elements like Boron, Gallium are added to a group IV semiconductor like Silicon. Since they create more holes than electrons, they are called 'p' (positive) type.
03

Compare both types

In \(n\)-type semiconductors, the majority carriers are electrons and minority carriers are holes. It's just the opposite in \(p\)-type semiconductors, where the majority carriers are holes and minority carriers are electrons. Another difference is the type of impurity they are doped with. \(n\)-type semiconductors are doped with group V elements, while \(p\)-type semiconductors are doped with group III elements.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Describe the difference between donor and acceptor impurities.

Describe in your own words the conditions established by forward- and reverse- bias conditions on a \(p-n\) junction diode and how the resulting current is affected.

Consult your reference library and list three materials that have a negative temperature coefficient and three that have a positive temperature coefficient.

Determine the temperature coefficient of a 5-V Zener diode (rated \(25^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\) value) if the nominal voltage drops to \(4.8 \mathrm{~V}\) at a temperature of \(100{ }^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\).

Describe how you will remember the forward- and reverse-bias states of the \(p-n\) junction diode. That is, how will you remember which potential (positive or negative) is applied to which terminal?
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Physics Textbooks

Medical Physics

Read Explanation

Linear Momentum

Read Explanation

Turning Points in Physics

Read Explanation

Waves Physics

Read Explanation

Electromagnetism

Read Explanation

Thermodynamics

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free