Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 306 of 494
In crystalline Silicon at room temperature, how does electron mobility (\( \mu_n \approx 1350\text{ cm}^2/\text{V}\cdot\text{s} \)) compare to hole mobility (\( \mu_p \approx 480\text{ cm}^2/\text{V}\cdot\text{s} \))?
A
Hole mobility is three times greater than electron mobility
B
Both mobilities are strictly equal
C
Electron mobility is roughly 2.5 to 3 times greater than hole mobility
D
Hole mobility is infinite while electron mobility is zero
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: Electron mobility is roughly 2.5 to 3 times greater than hole mobility
Concept:

Free electrons move through unoccupied states in the conduction band with lower effective mass, whereas holes move via sequential electron transfers between localized covalent bonds in the valence band, resulting in higher electron mobility.

Formula:

$$\frac{\mu_n}{\mu_p} \approx \frac{1350\text{ cm}^2/\text{V}\cdot\text{s}}{480\text{ cm}^2/\text{V}\cdot\text{s}} \approx 2.8$$

Solution:

  • In Silicon, \( \mu_n \approx 1350\text{ cm}^2/\text{V}\cdot\text{s} \) and \( \mu_p \approx 480\text{ cm}^2/\text{V}\cdot\text{s} \).


  • Electron mobility is approximately \( 2.8 \) times higher than hole mobility.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: Electron mobility is higher than hole mobility, not the other way around.
  • Option B: The mobilities differ significantly due to differences in effective mass and band structures.
  • Option D: Both carriers have finite, well-defined mobilities.

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