In the context of a silicon-based semiconductor, match each of the following descriptions to the type of semiconductor.
dopant:boron
contains electron holes
contains extra electrons
dopant:phosphorus
n-type semiconductors or p-type semiconductors
n-type: dopant=phosphorus and extra e's
p-type: dopant=boron and has e- holes
In the context of a silicon-based semiconductor, let's match each of the descriptions to the type of semiconductor.
1. Dopant: Boron
Explanation: Dopants are impurities intentionally added to a semiconductor to change its electrical properties. When boron (B) is added as a dopant to silicon (Si), it creates a p-type semiconductor.
2. Contains electron holes
Explanation: In a p-type semiconductor, doping with boron introduces a deficiency of electrons, which creates positively charged "holes." These holes can accept electrons, which allow for the flow of electric current.
3. Contains extra electrons
Explanation: In contrast to the p-type semiconductor, when phosphorus (P) is added as a dopant to silicon, it introduces an excess of electrons. This creates an n-type semiconductor.
4. Dopant: Phosphorus
Explanation: Phosphorus is commonly used as a dopant to create n-type semiconductors due to its extra electron. The extra electrons enable conductivity by increasing the number of available charge carriers.
Therefore, the matching would be:
- Dopant: Boron → p-type semiconductor
- Contains electron holes → p-type semiconductor
- Contains extra electrons → n-type semiconductor
- Dopant: Phosphorus → n-type semiconductor