1. Semiconductor devices are things that use silicon most often, like processors, RAM, transistors, LEDs, etc. Basically, most of the electronics we use have semiconductors in them.
2. Silicon is prized for its ability to partially conduct, the small electron holes in it allow more electricity to pass through as it is heated. Often, silicon is doped with other metals in small percentages that allow very precise control of how much conductivity the silicon hybrid has.
3. N-Type Semiconductors have more electrons, and less holes, with an overall negative charge. They are charge carriers. P-Type Semiconductors have more holes, and less electrons, with an overall positive charge. They are charge acceptors.
4. Diodes are the joining of an N and P semiconductor into one unit. It has a positive and negative side, this way. It is used for converting alternating current to direct current, as one important application.
5. Rectification is the ability of a diode to only let electricity flow one way. It's like a selectively-permeable membrane in chemistry, where in this case electrons are only allowed through if they are flowing in the right direction with enough "pressure" i.e. the concentration of electrons on one side is so great that they force through the small holes.
6. Different semiconductor materials produce different wavelengths when energized, thus different colors of light in an LED. Gallium Nitride, for example, produces blue light.
7. When the base current is flowing, the collector current also flows, allowing an amplified signal that wouldn't be possible with just the collector's power alone.
8. The transistor is a good alternative to a switch since it can be electronically vs mechanically controlled, allowing precision. Also, there is less physical wear and tear on the transistor vs. a physical switch.
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