Semiconductors

Semiconductors are materials that have electrical conductivity between that of conductors (like metals) and insulators (like non-metals). They are typically made from elements such as silicon or germanium and can conduct electricity under certain conditions, which can be altered by introducing impurities (a process known as doping) or changing temperature. This unique property allows them to control electrical current, making them essential components in electronic devices.

Semiconductors form the basis of modern electronics and are used in a variety of applications, including transistors, diodes, integrated circuits, and solar cells. They are fundamental in the functioning of devices such as computers, smartphones, and other digital appliances. Because of their ability to efficiently switch between conducting and non-conducting states, semiconductors are critical for the operation of logic circuits and memory storage in computing technologies.