Introduction to What is a Semiconductor

Semiconductors are materials that, in the world of electronics, act as the bridge between conductors (such as metals) and nonconductors (such as glass or plastics). They are essential for the development of transistors, integrated circuits, and other modern electronics. In fact, the semiconductor industry is worth billions of dollars, and advancement in the technology that utilizes semiconductors continue to push the industry forward.

But what is a semiconductor, and how do they work? This article will explain the basics of semiconductor technology and how they are used in modern electronics.

The Building Blocks of Semiconductors

At the most basic level, a semiconductor is a material that, when electricity is applied, will be able to conduct current. This property is enabled by an element’s electron structure, which dictates how easily electrons are able to move through a material.

As an example, let’s look at silicon, one of the most commonly used semiconductors. Like most elements, silicon atoms contain a nucleus surrounded by four electrons. However, this arrangement is far from perfect, and one of the outer electrons has a much lower energy than the other three. That is to say, it is much easier for that electron to jump from the silicon atom to its neighbor.

This means that, with enough energy supplied, the electrons in silicon can move freely, making it a good conductor of electricity. The same is true for other elements such as germanium and gallium arsenide, though the energy needed for this fluctuates between materials.

The Role of Doping

However, silicon on its own has some distinct drawbacks; as is, it is an insulator, meaning it cannot effectively conduct electricity. To transform it into an effective semiconductor, something else is needed.

This is where the process of doping comes in. By adding small amounts of material known as impurities, scientists are able to increase or decrease the charge in the silicon’s electron structure. This has the effect of creating “electron holes”, which effectively increases the conductivity of the element. The impurities used in this process are known as dopants.

In most applications, the material added is either a boron atom (which helps create an electron deficiency) or antimony (which helps create an electron surfeit). These additionals are also known as “n” and “p” type dopants, which refer to their polarity.

Semiconductor Usage in Modern Electronics

Semiconductors are vital components in the development of modern electronics. In fact, almost all modern consumer electronics, from mobile phones to computers, contain electrical components made from semiconductors.

The most vital use for these materials is in transistors, devices which are designed to act as electrical switches. They are incredibly versatile and can be used to amplify electronic signals, act as amplifiers and voltage regulators, and even make logic gates. What’s more, because of their incredible efficiency, they also produce barely any heat.

In addition to transistors, semiconductors are also integral to the development of integrated circuits. These components are made up of multiple transistors, diodes, and other electronic devices, usually in extremely dense configurations. With integrated circuits, even complex processes such as logic operations and timing can be handled, which makes them essential for the development of modern computers and other advanced electronics.

Conclusion
Semiconductors play an integral role in the development of modern electronics, from computers to mobile phones. By understanding the basics of semiconductor technology, and how it is used in the production of transistors and integrated circuits, one can begin to understand the complex process that takes place in the development of modern electronics.