Fermi Level and Work Function in Semiconductors

Where is the Fermi level typically located in a n-type and p-type semiconductor?

Between the conduction and valence bands

What is the work function represented as in metals?

Фm

What is the energy difference between the conduction band minimum and the vacuum energy level?

Electron affinity

What is the purpose of the Schottky diode when used as a rectifier contact?

To allow current flow in one direction Signup and view all the answers

What type of semiconductors can form the Schottky contact?

Both n-type and p-type semiconductors Signup and view all the answers

What is the unit of measurement for the work function and electron affinity?

Volts Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of aligning the Fermi energy of the metal and the semiconductor?

Formation of a depletion layer Signup and view all the answers

What is the energy difference between the band edge with majority carriers and the Fermi energy of the metal?

Barrier height Signup and view all the answers

What is the direction of electron transfer under equilibrium condition when a metal and n-type semiconductor are brought together?

From semiconductor to metal Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the work function of semiconductors and the electron affinity?

The work function is related to the electron affinity, conduction band, and Fermi energy Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the electron affinity and metal work function during the contacting process?

They are invariant fundamental properties Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of overcoming the Schottky barrier in a metal-semiconductor junction?

To allow electron flow across the diode Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of the Schottky barrier?

Schottky barrier height Signup and view all the answers

What prevents further electron flow from the semiconductor conduction band into the metal in an unbiased Schottky diode?

Built-in-potential Signup and view all the answers

In an unbiased Schottky diode, where is the built-in-potential or built-in-voltage primarily present?

In the n-type semiconductor Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of the net loss of electrons in the semiconductor and metal?

A depletion region and a growing barrier Signup and view all the answers

What is the energy required by the free electrons to overcome the barrier in an unbiased Schottky diode?

Energy greater than the built-in-voltage Signup and view all the answers

What is the width of the region over which electrons move into the metal compared to the width inside the n-type semiconductor?

Negligibly thin Signup and view all the answers