More about Semiconductors

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Semiconductors are materials whose electrical conductivity ranks between that of a conductor and an insulator, typically somewhere in the range of 105 to 10-7 S (or siemens, a unit used to measure electric conductance). They are designed to function as both an insulator and conductor, and will typically switch back and forth between the two during their operation in a device. Semiconductors are integral components of an extensive range of electronic equipment, and play an ever increasing role in modern technology.

Semiconductors differ from conductors in that they have less conductivity and by the characteristics of their outermost electron band, which is full in at absolute zero (theoretically), whereas it is incomplete in a conductor at the same temperature. Interestingly, although certain substances may act as insulators, even minimal changes to their compositional makeup can make them effective semiconductors, as is the case with doped silicon. In some cases, doping, which is the process of introducing additional chemical elements to a pure substance in order to alter its properties, can significantly increase the conductive capacity of the original material. This provides a wide range of possibilities to manufacturers, allowing them to substitute other materials for metal components.

Vacuum tubes were originally employed in many of the applications that now feature semiconductor technology. This is due to a number of factors, including the better durability of semiconductor devices, economic concerns, and various performance characteristics. Regular materials used as semiconductors are silicon, which is the most commonly used due to its low cost and physical attributes; and Germanium, which is often used in conjunction with silicon for certain devices. Other materials used include selenium, lead sulfide and silicon carbide. Semiconductor materials allow device operators to control the level of current within a circuit, and therefore permit precise control over the entire system.