Semiconductor Devices: Physics and Technology, 3rd Edition

1

Energy Bands and Carrier Concentration in Thermal Equilibrium

1.1 SEMICONDUCTOR MATERIALS

1.2 BASIC CRYSTAL STRUCTURES

1.3 VALENCE BONDS

1.4 ENERGY BANDS

1.5 INTRINSIC CARRIER CONCENTRATION

1.6 DONORS AND ACCEPTORS

SUMMARY

In this chapter, we consider some basic properties of semiconductors. We begin with a discussion of crystal structure, which is the arrangement of atoms in a solid. We then present the concepts of valence bonds and energy bands, which relate to conduction in semiconductors. Finally, we discuss the concept of carrier concentration in thermal equilibrium. These concepts are used throughout this book.

Specifically, we cover the following topics:

• Element and compound ...