TABLE OF CONTENTS Semiconductor materials possess electrical and physical properties that allow the unique functions of semiconductor devices and circuits. These properties are examined along with the basics of atoms, electrical classification of solids, and intrinsic and doped semiconductors.
Wafer fabrication is a long series of steps that include many cleaning operations using ordinary and specialty chemicals. The basic properties of gases, acids, bases, and solvents are discussed.
Upon completion of this chapter, you should be able to:
Identify the parts of an atom.
Name the two unique properties of a doped semiconductor.
List at least three semiconducting materials.
Explain the advantages and disadvantages of gallium arsenide compared with silicon.
Explain the difference in composition and electrical functioning of N- and P-type semiconducting materials.
Describe the properties of resistivity and resistance.
Identify the differences between acids, alkalis, and solvents.
List the four states of nature.
Give the definition of an atom, a molecule, and an ion.
Explain four or more basic chemical handling safety rules.
The understanding of semiconductor materials requires a basic knowledge of atomic structure.
Atoms are the building blocks of the physical universe. Everything in the universe (as far as we know) is made from the 96 stable materials and 12 unstable ones known as elements. Each element has a different atomic structure. The different structures give rise to the different properties of the elements.
The unique properties of gold are due...
