In a material, the Fermi level is located between the center of the va...
In a P-type semiconductor the Fermi level is close to valence band while in n-type the Fermi level is closer to conduction band. Only in intrinsic semiconductor it is at center of conduction and valence band.
In a material, the Fermi level is located between the center of the va...
Understanding the Fermi Level
The Fermi level is a crucial concept in solid-state physics, indicating the energy level at which the probability of finding an electron is 50% at absolute zero temperature. Its position relative to the conduction and valence bands determines the electrical properties of a material.
Fermi Level Position in Intrinsic Semiconductors
- In intrinsic semiconductors, the Fermi level lies exactly in the middle of the conduction band and the valence band.
- This balanced position signifies that the material has an equal chance of being occupied by electrons and holes, thus maintaining electrical neutrality.
Characteristics of Intrinsic Semiconductors
- Pure Material: Intrinsic semiconductors are made of pure elements or compounds without any significant doping.
- Electrical Conductivity: The conductivity arises from thermally generated electrons and holes. At room temperature, some electrons gain enough thermal energy to jump from the valence band to the conduction band.
- Temperature Dependence: The conductivity increases with temperature as more charge carriers are generated.
Comparison with Other Types
- P-type Semiconductors: The Fermi level is closer to the valence band due to the introduction of acceptor impurities, leading to more holes than electrons.
- N-type Semiconductors: The Fermi level is closer to the conduction band because of donor impurities, resulting in more electrons than holes.
- Insulators: The Fermi level is also positioned far from both bands, but the energy gap is much larger, preventing significant conduction at room temperature.
In conclusion, the placement of the Fermi level in intrinsic semiconductors indicates a balanced state, characteristic of pure materials, making option 'C' the correct choice.