Semiconductor Physics: Fraction of Drift Current Flow Due to Electrons

In summary, the conversation discusses a certain doped semiconductor at room temperature with specific properties such as charge carrier densities, electron and hole mobilities, and a diffusion coefficient. The question asks for the fraction of resulting drift current flow due to electrons when an electric field is applied. The solution involves using equations and parameters to calculate the hole and drift currents and then dividing them to obtain the desired ratio.
  • #1
hogrampage
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1

Homework Statement


A certain doped semiconductor at room temperature has the following properties: no = 9 x 1014 / cm3, po = 4 x 1014 / cm3, μe = 800 cm2 / V-s, μh = 400 cm2 / V-s, and (Dh[itex]\tau[/itex]h)1/2 = 10-4 cm.

If an electric field is applied, what fraction of the resulting drift current flow will be due to electrons?


Homework Equations


Not sure.


The Attempt at a Solution


I have no idea what to do, but the answer is 0.82 (according to the book).
 
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  • #2
Could you perhaps state what you think all the letters mean?

I would guess that:
No is charge carrier density of n type
p is charge carrier density of p type
no idea what μ e and h are ... or what Dh and Tau h are,

In my experience (if this came from a lecturer) he will have given you a formula. Perhaps even with all these terms present.. and the answer may just fall out...

I found this related PDF
http://users.ece.gatech.edu/~alan/ECE3080/Lectures/ECE3080-L-7-Drift - Diffusion Chap 3 Pierret.pdf

It contains equations for calculating hole and drift currents (if you have the right parameters available).

Maybe if you worked out the hole current , worked out the drift current ... and divided one by the other to get the ratio?

Sorry its not a complete answer but it may get you going in the right direction :)
 

FAQ: Semiconductor Physics: Fraction of Drift Current Flow Due to Electrons

1. What is a semiconductor?

A semiconductor is a material that has electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. This means it can conduct electricity, but not as easily as a metal conductor. Examples of semiconductors include silicon, germanium, and gallium arsenide.

2. What is drift current flow?

Drift current flow is the movement of charge carriers, such as electrons, through a material due to an applied electric field. In semiconductors, drift current flow is primarily caused by the movement of free electrons.

3. How is the fraction of drift current flow due to electrons determined?

The fraction of drift current flow due to electrons is determined by the material's intrinsic carrier concentration, the applied electric field, and the mobility of the electrons. This can be calculated using the equation: fraction of drift current flow = (mobility of electrons * applied electric field) / (intrinsic carrier concentration).

4. What factors affect the fraction of drift current flow due to electrons?

The fraction of drift current flow due to electrons is affected by the material's temperature, impurity concentration, and the strength of the applied electric field. Higher temperatures and higher impurity concentrations can decrease the fraction of drift current flow, while a stronger electric field can increase it.

5. How does the fraction of drift current flow due to electrons impact semiconductor devices?

The fraction of drift current flow due to electrons plays a crucial role in the functioning of semiconductor devices. It affects the conductivity and resistance of the material, which in turn impacts the device's performance. Understanding and controlling this fraction is essential in the design and development of efficient and reliable semiconductor devices.

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