Difference Between Intrinsic and Extrinsic Semiconductors

By
Last updated:
S.NO Intrinsic semiconductors Extrinsic semiconductors
1. Semiconductor in a pure form is called intrinsic semiconductor. Semiconductor which are doped with impurity is called extrinsic semiconductor.
2. Here the charge carriers are produced only due to thermal agitation Here the charge carriers are produced due to impurities and may also be produced due to thermal agitation.
3. They have low electrical conductivity. They have high electrical conductivity.
4. They have high operating temperature. They have low operating temperature.
5.

At 0K, the Fermi level exactly lies between conduction band and valence band.

Examples : Si, Ge, etc.

At 0K, Fermi level lies closer to conduction band in ‘n’ type semiconductor and lies near valence band in ‘p’ type semiconductor.

Examples : Si and Ge doped with Al, In, P, As etc.

What is the distinction between an intrinsic and an extrinsic semiconductor?

Answer: An intrinsic semiconductor is a pure semiconductor material, like silicon or germanium, with no impurities, where electrical conductivity depends only on temperature. An extrinsic semiconductor is doped with specific impurities to increase conductivity, classified as n-type (extra electrons) or p-type (extra holes), making it more useful in electronic devices.

[sc_fs_faq html=”true” headline=”h3″ img=”” question=”Which is intrinsic semiconductor?” img_alt=”” css_class=””] Silicon and germanium are examples of intrinsic semiconductors. [/sc_fs_faq]

Read More Topics
Variation of carrier concentration with temperature
Elemental and compound semiconductors
Difference between N & P type semiconductor

Santhakumar Raja

I am the founder of Pedagogy Zone, a dedicated education platform that provides reliable and up-to-date information on academic trends, learning resources, and educational developments.

For Feedback - techactive6@gmail.com