Compound semiconductors in group IV

In summary, the main donor impurities in compound semiconductors are those from group V of the periodic table, such as arsenic and phosphorous, which substitute for silicon atoms in the crystal structure. This is because silicon is tetravalent, meaning it can only form four covalent bonds, so the extra electron from the substitution becomes a surplus and can easily be given up to the crystal structure.
  • #1
jwxie
282
0

Homework Statement



Here is an excerpt from a work

For example, in the case of compound semiconductors in group IV of the periodic table such as silicon, the main donor impurities are those which, being from group V of the period table (arsenic, phosphorous, etc), are substituted in place of a silicon atom in the crystal structure: since silicon is tetravalence, these atoms naturally form four covalent bonds with the silicon atoms around them, and also easily give up their surplus electron to the crystal structure.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



What I don't understand is the excerpt.

Okay, silicon is #14, which has 3s2 3p2, total of 4 valence electrons.
But I do not know

(1) first, which and where is this surplus electron referring to / from? from the substitution (group V), or four covalent-bonded silicon?

(2) second, so what about the substitution with an element of group V?

Any comment is appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


A substitution from group V will have five valence electrons instead of four.
 
  • #3


So it is from the substitution, since you can't fit the extra one.

Thanks
 

FAQ: Compound semiconductors in group IV

1. What are compound semiconductors in group IV?

Compound semiconductors in group IV are materials that are composed of elements from group IV of the periodic table, such as silicon, germanium, and tin, as well as elements from group III or V, such as gallium or phosphorus. These materials have unique properties that make them useful for a variety of applications, including electronics, optics, and energy conversion.

2. How do compound semiconductors in group IV differ from traditional group IV semiconductors?

Unlike traditional group IV semiconductors, which are composed of a single element, compound semiconductors in group IV have a more complex crystal structure due to the presence of additional elements. This allows them to have different electronic and optical properties, making them suitable for a wider range of applications.

3. What are the advantages of using compound semiconductors in group IV?

One of the main advantages of using compound semiconductors in group IV is their ability to tune their properties by changing the composition of the material. This makes them highly versatile and allows for tailored performance for specific applications. Additionally, these materials often have higher electron mobility and optical properties compared to traditional group IV semiconductors.

4. What are some common applications of compound semiconductors in group IV?

Compound semiconductors in group IV have a wide range of applications, including in optoelectronics, photovoltaics, and power electronics. They are commonly used in high-speed and high-frequency devices, such as transistors and diodes, as well as in sensors and detectors. They are also used in the production of solar cells for renewable energy generation.

5. What are the current challenges in using compound semiconductors in group IV?

One of the main challenges in using compound semiconductors in group IV is the difficulty in growing high-quality crystals due to the complexity of their crystal structure. This can lead to higher production costs and lower device yields. Additionally, the integration of these materials with existing semiconductor technologies can be challenging. However, ongoing research and advancements in material growth and processing techniques are helping to address these challenges.

Similar threads

What's the chemistry behind a semiconductor?
Replies
8
Views
1K
Chemistry How do we know ##BF_3## has Lewis structure but ##Al_2S_3## does not?
Replies
1
Views
1K
How are holes charge carriers?
Replies
1
Views
886
I Semiconductor is the combination of elements in the groups IV and VI?
Replies
2
Views
1K
Nomenclature of organic compounds
Replies
1
Views
1K
A Empirical tight-binding sp3s* band structure of semiconductors
Replies
2
Views
2K
A How do acceptor energy levels form in p-doped semiconductors?
Replies
2
Views
2K
B Something strange about doping semiconductors
Replies
1
Views
1K
I Minority charge carriers - what are these?
Replies
2
Views
3K
Engineering Calculating the number of quantum states in the valence and conduction bands
Replies
1
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top