A semiconductor is a substance with a conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. It is not very conductive in a pure state, but its conductivity can be adjusted by adding impurities (doping) or changing the temperature. The typical representative of semiconductors is silicon, which is widely used in the manufacturing of electronic components. Semiconductor technology is the cornerstone of modern electronic devices, such as smartphones, computers, digital cameras, etc., all rely on semiconductor chips. In addition, semiconductors are also very important in the energy field, such as semiconductor materials, which are the core of solar cells. The application of semiconductors also covers LED lighting, sensors for medical equipment, and power electronic devices, which have had a profound impact on modern technology and daily life.
Definition of semiconductors
1.1 Basic concepts and properties
Semiconductors are materials that lie between conductors and insulators, and their conductivity varies with temperature. At room temperature, the resistance value of a semiconductor is between a conductor (such as copper or silver) and an insulator (such as rubber or quartz). Its characteristic is that under certain conditions, such as heating or exposure to light, its conductivity will be enhanced. This characteristic makes semiconductors widely used in electronic devices.
1.2 Comparison with conductors and insulators
Conductor: Usually refers to a metal or other substance with a very low resistance value that can easily conduct current. For example, the resistance values of copper and silver are 1.68x10 ^ -8 and 1.59x10 ^ -8 ohms per meter at 20 ° C, respectively.
Insulators: These materials have very high resistance values and are almost non-conductive. For example, the resistance value of clean quartz is approximately 1x10 ^ 17 ohms per meter.
Semiconductor: Between conductors and insulators. For example, the resistance value of pure silicon at room temperature is approximately 2.3x10 ^ 3 ohms per meter, but its resistance value significantly decreases when exposed to light or heating.
