Question

If $n_e$ and $n_h$ are concentrations of electrons and holes in a semiconductor, then the intrinsic carrier concentration ($n_i$) in thermal equilibrium is

• A. $n_i = \frac{\sqrt{n_e}}{n_h}$
• B. $n_i = \frac{n_h}{n_e}$
• C. $n_i = \sqrt{n_e n_h}$
• D. $n_i = n_e + n_h$

Hint:

In semiconductors, the intrinsic carrier concentration follows $n_i^2 = n_e n_h$, a key concept in semiconductor physics.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

For a semiconductor in thermal equilibrium: $$n_i^2 = n_e n_h$$ Taking the square root: $$n_i = \sqrt{n_e n_h}$$ Thus, the correct answer is $n_i = \sqrt{n_e n_h}$.