Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 138 of 494
What is the typical ratio of dopant impurity atoms to host semiconductor atoms used to fabricate extrinsic semiconductors for standard electronic devices?
A
1 : 10
B
1 : 10^6 to 1 : 10^8
C
1 : 10^15
D
1 : 2
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: 1 : 10^6 to 1 : 10^8
Concept:

Controlled doping adds small, precise amounts of impurity atoms (typically 1 part in \( 10^6 \) to \( 10^8 \)) to dramatically increase conductivity without disrupting the host crystal lattice.

Formula:

$$\text{Doping Ratio} = \frac{N_{\text{dopant}}}{N_{\text{host}}} \approx 10^{-6} \text{ to } 10^{-8}$$

Solution:

  • Silicon has an atomic density of \( \approx 5 \times 10^{22}\text{ atoms/cm}^3 \).


  • Doping with 1 impurity atom per \( 10^6 \) to \( 10^8 \) host atoms introduces \( 10^{14} \) to \( 10^{16}\text{ dopants/cm}^3 \).


  • This increases electrical conductivity by several orders of magnitude while preserving the structural integrity of the crystal.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: 1:10 is an alloy concentration that disrupts the semiconductor crystal lattice.
  • Option C: 1:10^15 is too dilute to significantly alter conductivity beyond intrinsic levels.
  • Option D: 1:2 represents an intermetallic compound, not a doped semiconductor.

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