Question

The conductivity of semiconductors __________ with an increase in temperature.

• A. increases
• B. decreases
• C. both decreases and increases
• D. constant

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

increases

The conductivity of semi-conductors increases with increase in temperature.

As temperature increases, some electrons are thermally released from the covalent bonds in pure Si or Ge.

These electrons are free to move in the crystal and are responsible for electrical conductivity.

With increase in temperature, the number of electrons released increases and the electrical conductivity increases.

This type of conduction is called intrinsic conduction.