solar energy

Question 0

what is a lattice?

Answer 0

3d structure

Question 1

silicon

Answer 1

silicon has 4 valence electrons
it is used as the semiconductor which forms the starting point for fabrication.
at temp above absolute zero, an electron in the lattice can be knocked loose leaving a hole.

Question 2

how does current flow?

Answer 2

apply voltage and the electron and the hole contributes to current flow

Question 3

doping of semiconductors

Answer 3

addition of small percentage of foreign atoms in the regular crystal lattice

Question 4

what are the 2 kinds of semi-conductors?

Answer 4

n type

p type

Question 5

how are n type semiconductors produced?

Answer 5

n type semi conductors are produced by impurity atoms with 5 valence electrons that contribute to extra electrons

the dopant contributes extra electrons thus increasing conductivity

Question 6

how are p type semiconductors produced?

Answer 6

produced by impurity atoms with 3 valence electrons .
a hole or electron deficiency.
the dopant produces extra vacancies or holes which increases conductivity.

eg a