Manga Questions 156-159

1. What is an example of a semiconductor device?

Grey selenium is an example.

2. Why is silicon used in the manufacture of semiconductors? 

Silicon is probably most often used because of its abundance and relatively low cost and it's dependable. It can be of both p and n types. It sounds like it's just awesome and it's fun to play with.

3. Discuss the difference using an example of the difference between and N-type and P-type semiconductor.

They're typically of different materials: N-types have no holes and a negative charge (get it, "N"), while P-types have wholes to allow more electrons to pass through and have positive charges.

4. In your own words describe what a dioode does and the role of N and P type semiconductors.

Diodes, like LEDs, take current from one place but don't allow it to come in from the other. It's sort of like making a magnet because you have to combine both types to make the diode.

5. What is rectification?

Allowing current to only flow in one direction.

6. What causes color in an LED? Give and example of what causes a particular color.

The wavelength of light emitted depends on the raw material used as a semiconductor. Current is passed through the various materials interacting with that park of the visible spectrum to produce a specific color light. Blue LEDs first used magnesium-doped gallium nitride.

7. What is the relationship between base current and collector current in a transistor?

Base current is our initial current we run through the transistor. The collector current builds the energy in the transistor allowing for a larger current to be outputted.

8. What are the advantages of a transistor over a switch? 

Transistors act as a go between where as switches are directly connected. They also allow for a steady output of power versus on/off and they're less likely to ware out quickly.