10 Questions
Explain why conduction is not possible in semiconductors and insulators when an external electric field is applied.
Conduction is not possible in semiconductors and insulators when an external electric field is applied because there is a forbidden gap present in these materials. This forbidden gap prevents the movement of electrons to the conduction band, unlike in metals where electrons can easily move and conduct electricity.
What is the energy difference between a location close to an ion core and another location away from the ion core in silicon?
The energy difference between a location close to an ion core and another location away from the ion core in silicon is approximately 1 eV.
What is the approximate distance between the two locations mentioned in the previous question?
The approximate distance between the two locations mentioned in the previous question is about 1 Å (10^-10 m).
What field gradient is necessary to move an electron from the top of the valence band to the bottom of the conduction band in silicon?
A field gradient of approximately 1V/(10^-10 m) = 10^10 Vm^-1 is necessary to move an electron from the top of the valence band to the bottom of the conduction band in silicon.
What is the difference between conduction in metals and conduction in semiconductors/insulators?
In metals, conduction is possible even with the application of an external electric field as there is no forbidden gap present. However, in semiconductors and insulators, conduction is not possible due to the presence of a forbidden gap which prevents the movement of electrons to the conduction band.
What is the significance of the forbidden gap in semiconductors and insulators?
The forbidden gap in semiconductors and insulators prevents conduction when an external electric field is applied.
What is the energy difference between a location close to an ion core and another location away from the ion core in silicon?
The energy difference between a location close to an ion core and another location away from the ion core in silicon is approximately 1 eV.
What is the field gradient necessary to move an electron from the top of the valence band to the bottom of the conduction band in silicon?
The field gradient necessary to move an electron from the top of the valence band to the bottom of the conduction band in silicon is approximately 1010 Vm-1.
Why is conduction not possible in semiconductors and insulators when an external electric field is applied?
Conduction is not possible in semiconductors and insulators when an external electric field is applied due to the presence of the forbidden gap.
What is the distance between two locations with an energy difference of approximately 1 eV in silicon?
The distance between two locations with an energy difference of approximately 1 eV in silicon is about 1 Å (10^-10 m).
Test your knowledge of semiconductor physics and computational methods with this quiz. Explore topics such as intrinsic semiconductors, external electric fields, and conductivity. Perfect for students of physics and nanotechnology.
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