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Home»VLSI Design»Difference Between Intrinsic and Extrinsic Semiconductor
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Difference Between Intrinsic and Extrinsic Semiconductor

siliconvlsiBy siliconvlsiJuly 3, 2023Updated:September 29, 2024No Comments2 Mins Read
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The detailed difference between the two types of semiconductors is provided below:

Intrinsic and Extrinsic Semiconductor

Intrinsic Semiconductor

When we talk about intrinsic semiconductors, we’re referring to those pure materials that don’t undergo doping or have impurities added. In these semiconductors, the number of free electrons in the conduction band is equal to the number of holes in the valence band. This balance results in low electrical conductivity. If you think about it, the conductivity of intrinsic semiconductors primarily depends on temperature. Some common examples you might come across are the crystalline forms of pure silicon and germanium.

Extrinsic Semiconductor

Now, let’s shift our focus to extrinsic semiconductors. These are made by adding a small amount of impurity to a pure semiconductor through a process known as doping. Unlike intrinsic semiconductors, the number of electrons and holes in extrinsic semiconductors isn’t equal, which is why their electrical conductivity is much higher. You’ll find that the conductivity in these materials depends on both temperature and the amount of impurity we add. Some examples of extrinsic semiconductors include germanium or silicon that have been doped with impurities like arsenic, aluminum, phosphorus, gallium, indium, and antimony.

Summary

To sum it up, intrinsic semiconductors stay pure without any impurities, while extrinsic semiconductors are intentionally doped with specific impurities to enhance their electrical properties. If you’re looking for examples, silicon and germanium are the go-tos for intrinsic semiconductors, while extrinsic semiconductors come from adding elements like arsenic, aluminum, phosphorus, gallium, indium, and antimony to pure germanium or silicon.

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