Semiconductors and Their Applications in Diodes, Transistors, and Solar Cel
1. Introduction to Semiconductors
Semiconductors are materials that have electrical conductivity between conductors (like copper) and
insulators (like glass). Their conductivity can be precisely controlled. Common examples include
silicon and germanium.
2. Energy Band Theory
Semiconductors have a small band gap (~1 eV) between the valence and conduction bands. This
allows controlled conductivity. Conductors have overlapping bands, while insulators have a wide
band gap.
3. Doping and Types of Semiconductors
Doping involves adding impurities to pure semiconductors to increase conductivity. N-type
semiconductors use atoms with extra electrons (e.g., phosphorus), while P-type use atoms with
fewer electrons (e.g., boron).
4. PN Junction Diode
A diode allows current to flow in one direction. It is made by joining P-type and N-type
semiconductors. In forward bias, current flows; in reverse bias, it does not. Diodes are used in
rectifiers and protection circuits.
5. Transistors
Transistors are semiconductor devices used to amplify or switch signals. BJTs have three parts:
emitter, base, and collector. A small current at the base controls a larger current between collector
and emitter.
6. Solar Cells
Solar cells convert sunlight into electricity using the photovoltaic effect. Light generates electron-hole
pairs in a PN junction, and the built-in electric field separates them, producing electric current.
7. Comparison Table
Diodes control current direction. Transistors amplify or switch signals. Solar cells convert light into
electricity. All are based on semiconductor PN junctions.
8. Future of Semiconductor Devices
Research is advancing nano-transistors, flexible solar cells, and GaN-based power devices.
Quantum transistors and optoelectronic components are under development.
9. Conclusion
Semiconductors are fundamental to modern electronics. Devices like diodes, transistors, and solar
cells showcase their versatility. Future innovations will continue to rely on these materials.
10. References
- NCERT Physics Class 12
- Electronic Devices and Circuits by Boylestad
- IEEE Journals
- Websites: HowStuffWorks, NASA, Intel
