Question

Explain the differences between \( n \)-type and \( p \)-type semiconductors. Show that both types of semiconductors are electrically neutral.

Hint:

Both \( n \)-type and \( p \)-type semiconductors are electrically neutral because the charge of dopants balances the free charge carriers.

Answer 1

Differences between \( n \)-type and \( p \)-type semiconductors: \begin{table}[h] \centering \begin{tabular}{|c|c|c|} \hline Property & \( n \)-type Semiconductor & \( p \)-type Semiconductor
\hline Majority Carriers & Electrons & Holes
\hline Minority Carriers & Holes & Electrons
\hline Dopant Type & Donor (e.g., Phosphorus) & Acceptor (e.g., Boron)
\hline Charge Carrier Mobility & Higher & Lower
\hline Electrical Neutrality & Yes & Yes
\hline \end{tabular} \end{table} Electrical Neutrality Although \( n \)-type semiconductors have excess electrons and \( p \)-type have excess holes, the total number of positive and negative charges remains equal due to the balance between ionized dopant atoms and charge carriers. \[ \boxed{\text{Both types of semiconductors are electrically neutral.}} \]