A semiconductor is a material that has an electrical conductivity in between that of a conductor and an insulator. This means that it can conduct electricity, but not as well as a conductor. A conductor, on the other hand, has a high electrical conductivity and can easily conduct electricity.
Semiconductors work by using the energy from an external source, such as electricity, to move electrons from one energy level to another. This allows them to act as a switch or amplifier for electrical currents.
Some common examples of semiconductors include silicon, germanium, and gallium arsenide. These materials are used in various electronic devices, such as computers, smartphones, and solar cells.
Yes, semiconductors can be converted into conductors by adding impurities to the material. This process is called doping and it changes the number of free electrons in the material, allowing it to conduct electricity more easily.
The use of semiconductors has revolutionized the electronics industry and has many advantages, including their small size, low power consumption, and ability to be easily manipulated and controlled. They also allow for the creation of complex electronic circuits and devices.