During the overhaul of a communication receiver, a technician needs to verify the electrical classification of materials used in the circuit assembly. Which of the following statements correctly identifies the valence electron structure and electrical properties of an intrinsic semiconductor such as germanium?
- AIt possesses one or two loosely bound valence electrons, enabling the rapid transfer of electrical charge with minimal resistance.
- It contains exactly four valence electrons in its outermost shell, giving it an electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator.Answer
- CIt has seven or eight tightly bound valence electrons, offering extremely high resistance that prevents the movement of free electrons under standard conditions.
- DIt allows conventional current to flow freely from positive to negative potentials while completely blocking negative electron flow.
Answer
Intrinsic semiconductors contain four valence electrons in their outermost shell, giving them conductivity intermediate between conductors and insulators.
Elements such as germanium and silicon are classified as semiconductors because they have four valence electrons in their outermost shell. This structure gives them electrical conductivity that lies midway between good conductors (which have 1 to 3 loosely bound valence electrons) and insulators (which have 5 to 8 tightly bound valence electrons).
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Valence shell configuration of semiconductors versus conductors and insulators
Estimated Time:1m 0s