Semiconductors

Semiconductors are materials that have electrical conductivity values intermediate between those of insulators and conductors. Typically composed of elements such as silicon, germanium, and gallium arsenide, semiconductors have unique properties that allow them to control electrical current. Their conductivity can be altered by introducing impurities in a process called doping, enabling them to function as either conductors or insulators depending on the conditions.

Semiconductors are fundamental to modern electronics and are used in a wide range of devices, including transistors, diodes, solar cells, and integrated circuits. Their ability to withstand and manipulate electrical signals makes them essential for digital and analog electronic systems. The performance and efficiency of semiconductors can vary under different temperatures and conditions, which is why they are often integrated into complex circuits to perform specific tasks, forming the backbone of modern technology.