Which among the following is an example of an electrical semiconductor?

The correct answer is Gallium arsenide.

Key Points

• Gallium arsenide (GaAs) is a compound semiconductor, made from the elements gallium and arsenic.
• It has a higher electron mobility than silicon, which allows for faster electronic device operation.
• GaAs is used in the production of devices such as microwave frequency integrated circuits, infrared light-emitting diodes, and solar cells.
• It is known for its high efficiency in converting electricity into light, making it useful in optoelectronics.

Important Points

• Electrical conductors: Materials like copper and aluminum are excellent conductors of electricity due to their high free electron density.
• Semiconductors: Materials like silicon and gallium arsenide have electrical conductivity between conductors and insulators and are crucial in electronic devices.
• Optoelectronics: The field concerning the use of light in electronic devices, where materials like GaAs are prominent.

Additional Information

• Copper: Copper is a metal with high electrical conductivity and is widely used in electrical wiring and electronics.
• Graphite: Graphite, a form of carbon, is a good conductor of electricity due to its free electrons. It is used in batteries and as a lubricant.
• Aluminium: Aluminium is a lightweight metal with good electrical conductivity, often used in power lines and electronic devices.