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Electrical Properties and Semiconductors

Terry Alford

In this course, we will explore the electrical properties of materials and classify different materials as conductors, semiconductors or insulators. We will look at some examples of conductors, semiconductors and insulators, and note the key factors that cause the differences in their electrical properties. We will use rudimentary band theory to show how temperature impacts the conductivity of the three classifications of materials. We will learn what causes the differences in electrical behavior of a p-type versus an n-type semiconductor in a p-n diode.

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Syllabus

Electrical Properties and Semiconductors
In this course, we will explore the electrical properties of materials and classify different materials as conductors, semiconductors or insulators. We will look at some examples of conductors, semiconductors and insulators, and note the key factors that cause the differences in their electrical properties. We will use rudimentary band theory to show how temperature impacts the conductivity of the three classifications of materials. We will learn what causes the differences in electrical behavior of a p-type versus an n-type semiconductor in a p-n diode.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores electrical properties and semiconductors, which are foundational concepts in electronics and electrical engineering
Taught by Terry Alford, who is an expert in the field of electrical engineering
Provides a strong foundation for understanding the electrical behavior of materials and devices
Covers key topics such as electrical conductivity, semiconductors, and semiconductor devices
Examines the differences in electrical behavior of p-type versus n-type semiconductors in a p-n diode, which is a core concept in semiconductor physics
Requires some background knowledge in physics and mathematics, which may not be suitable for complete beginners

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Reviews summary

Solid theoretical semiconductor fundamentals

According to inferred student feedback, this course offers a strong theoretical foundation in electrical properties and semiconductors. Learners highlight the clear and precise explanations of complex topics like band theory and p-n diodes, making fundamental concepts accessible. While praised for its systematic approach to foundational physics, some inferred reviews suggest it may be too theoretical for those seeking immediate practical application or hands-on device design, implying a potential mismatch for some professional learners.
Provides a robust understanding of core principles.
"This course provided an excellent foundation in semiconductor physics."
"Superb course for understanding the core principles of semiconductors."
"As an engineering student, I found the modules particularly helpful in solidifying my understanding of fundamental concepts."
Complex topics are presented with exceptional clarity.
"The explanations of band theory and material classification were very clear and systematic."
"Everything from material classification to band theory is explained logically and precisely."
"The lectures are very well-structured, breaking down complex topics into digestible parts."
Primarily suits those with a strong science background.
"It feels very academic and might be too fast-paced for absolute beginners without a prior science background."
"For those with some physics, it's a decent refresher, but don't expect deep dives or advanced topics."
"This course is ideal for building foundational knowledge in solid-state electronics."
More theoretical, less focused on hands-on or real-world use.
"While it provides a strong theoretical base, I do wish there were more practical examples or a brief look into real-world applications."
"I took this course hoping to gain practical knowledge... but it was far too theoretical."
"It's more of a physics course than an applied engineering one, so don't expect design considerations."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Electrical Properties and Semiconductors with these activities:
Connect with a semiconductor industry professional
Seek mentorship from an experienced professional in the semiconductor industry, gaining valuable insights into career paths, industry trends, and practical applications of the course material.
Show steps
  • Identify potential mentors through professional networks.
  • Reach out to potential mentors and introduce yourself.
  • Schedule a meeting or video call to discuss your interests and career goals.
Review the basics of electrical engineering
Reviewing the basics of electrical engineering will help you refresh your knowledge and prepare you for the course.
Browse courses on Electrical Engineering
Show steps
  • Review your notes from previous electrical engineering courses.
  • Read introductory articles or textbooks on electrical engineering.
  • Solve practice problems related to electrical engineering.
Review basic concepts in quantum mechanics
Refresh your knowledge of fundamental quantum mechanical concepts, such as wave-particle duality and energy quantization, which are essential for understanding the behavior of electrons in semiconductors.
Browse courses on Quantum Mechanics
Show steps
  • Review notes or textbooks on quantum mechanics.
  • Solve practice problems to reinforce understanding.
  • Attend a refresher workshop or online lecture.
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Watch video tutorials on band theory
Watching video tutorials on band theory will help you visualize and understand the concepts.
Browse courses on Band Theory
Show steps
  • Find video tutorials on band theory online.
  • Watch the tutorials and take notes.
  • Review your notes and try to explain the concepts to someone else.
Discuss carrier concentration in semiconductors
Engage in discussions with peers to clarify your understanding of carrier concentration in semiconductors, fostering collaborative learning and diverse perspectives.
Show steps
  • Prepare questions or topics for discussion.
  • Attend the peer session and actively participate.
  • Summarize key takeaways and follow up with additional research if needed.
Solve practice problems on electrical properties of materials
Solving practice problems will help you solidify your understanding of the electrical properties of materials.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in textbooks.
  • Solve the problems step-by-step.
  • Check your answers and identify any areas where you need more practice.
Read 'Semiconductor Devices: Physics and Technology'
Expand your knowledge of semiconductor devices by reading a classic textbook, gaining a comprehensive understanding of their principles, fabrication, and applications.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read selected chapters relevant to the course topics.
  • Summarize key concepts and equations.
  • Compare the book's content with your course materials.
Discuss the course material with classmates
Discussing the course material with classmates will help you understand the concepts better and identify areas where you need more clarification.
Show steps
  • Find a study partner or group.
  • Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
  • Ask questions and share your insights.
Calculate conductivity using band theory
Practice using band theory to calculate the conductivity of different materials, reinforcing your understanding of the relationship between band structure and electrical properties.
Browse courses on Band Theory
Show steps
  • Review the principles of band theory.
  • Identify the relevant bandgap and effective mass for the material of interest.
  • Apply the appropriate formula to calculate conductivity.
  • Compare your results with experimental data or theoretical predictions.
Write a blog post or article on a topic related to the course
Writing a blog post or article will help you synthesize your understanding of the course material and communicate it to others.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic related to the course.
  • Research the topic and gather information.
  • Write a blog post or article that explains the topic clearly and concisely.
  • Publish your blog post or article online.
Design a semiconductor device
Design and simulate a semiconductor device using a software tool, deepening your understanding of the interplay between device structure, material properties, and electrical behavior.
Show steps
  • Choose a device type (e.g., diode, transistor, solar cell).
  • Select appropriate materials and dimensions.
  • Simulate the device using a software tool.
  • Analyze the simulation results and optimize the device design.
Build a data visualization of semiconductor properties
Create a data visualization to represent the electrical properties of different semiconductor materials, reinforcing your understanding of the relationships between these properties.
Browse courses on Data Visualization
Show steps
  • Gather data on semiconductor properties.
  • Choose an appropriate data visualization tool.
  • Design and create the data visualization.
  • Interpret the results and draw conclusions.

Career center

Learners who complete Electrical Properties and Semiconductors will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Electronics Engineer
Electronics Engineers design, develop, test and manufacture electronic devices. In this course, they will learn about the essential physics of semiconductor devices, which is needed to understand the operation and design of electronic circuits and devices. Additionally, the course provides a basic understanding of the behavior of carriers in semiconductors, which is necessary to optimize the performance of semiconductor-based devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electronics Engineer
Electrical Engineer
This course can be of great help to an Electrical Engineer as it teaches about the electrical properties of semiconductors, which is essential in the design of semiconductor-based devices such as microprocessors, memory chips and light-emitting diodes. Furthermore, the course covers the behavior of carriers in semiconductors which is necessary for understanding the operation of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer
Semiconductor Process Engineer
Semiconductor Process Engineers develop and optimize the processes used to manufacture semiconductors. This course would provide them with a strong foundation in the electrical properties of semiconductors and the behavior of carriers in semiconductors, which are essential for understanding the manufacturing process of semiconductors.
See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Process Engineer
Material Scientist
Materials Scientists research new materials and develop processes to produce them. This course would provide a strong foundation in the electrical properties of materials and semiconductors, which are essential for the development of new materials for electronic applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Material Scientist
Semiconductor Device Physicist
Semiconductor Device Physicists study the physical properties of semiconductor devices and develop new ways to improve their performance. This course would provide them with a strong foundation in the electrical properties of semiconductors and the behavior of carriers in semiconductors, which are essential for the development of new semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Device Physicist
Solar Cell Engineer
Solar Cell Engineers design, develop, and test solar cells, which convert sunlight into electricity. This course would provide them with a basic understanding of the electrical properties of semiconductors, which are used in solar cells, and the behavior of carriers in semiconductors, which is necessary to optimize the performance of solar cells.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solar Cell Engineer
Nanotechnology Engineer
Nanotechnology Engineers design and develop new materials and devices at the nanoscale. This course would provide them with a basic understanding of the electrical properties of semiconductors and the behavior of carriers in semiconductors, which are essential for the development of nanoscale electronic devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nanotechnology Engineer
Product Designer
In this course, Product Designers would learn about the electrical properties of semiconductors and the behavior of carriers in semiconductors. This basic knowledge will help them to understand the function of semiconductor-based devices, which are used in almost all electronic products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer
Reliability Engineer
Reliability Engineers ensure that products meet the company's reliability standards. This course would provide them with a basic understanding of the electrical properties of semiconductors, which are used in many electronic products. The knowledge will help them to evaluate the reliability of semiconductor-based products and to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
See salaries and explore the career path for Reliability Engineer
Test Engineer
Test Engineers develop and conduct tests to ensure that products meet the company's specifications. This course would provide them with a basic understanding of the electrical properties of semiconductors, which are used in many electronic products. The knowledge will help them to develop and conduct tests for semiconductor-based products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Test Engineer
Applications Engineer
Applications Engineers provide technical support to customers and help them to use the company's products. This course would provide them with a basic understanding of the electrical properties of semiconductors, which are used in many electronic products. The knowledge will help them to understand the function of semiconductor-based products and to troubleshoot any issues that customers may encounter.
See salaries and explore the career path for Applications Engineer
Supplier Quality Engineer
Supplier Quality Engineers must work closely with suppliers to ensure that the components they provide meet the company's requirements. This course would provide them with a basic understanding of the electrical properties of semiconductors, which are used in many electronic components. The knowledge will help them to evaluate the quality of semiconductor components and to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
See salaries and explore the career path for Supplier Quality Engineer
Quality Assurance Engineer
Quality Assurance Engineers ensure that products meet the company's quality standards. This course would provide them with a basic understanding of the electrical properties of semiconductors, which are used in many electronic products. The knowledge will help them to evaluate the quality of semiconductor-based products and to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Engineer
Manufacturing Engineer
Manufacturing Engineers develop and improve the processes used to manufacture products. This course would provide them with a basic understanding of the electrical properties of semiconductors, which are used in many electronic products. The knowledge will help them to understand the manufacturing process of semiconductor-based products and to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Engineer
Sales Engineer
Sales Engineers sell the company's products and services to customers. This course would provide them with a basic understanding of the electrical properties of semiconductors, which are used in many electronic products. The knowledge will help them to understand the function of semiconductor-based products and to answer customer questions about these products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Engineer

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Electrical Properties and Semiconductors.
Cover image
Solid State Physics
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of solid state physics. It valuable resource for anyone working in this field.
Solid State Physics
Hardcover
$$$$
Solid State Physics
Kindle Edition
$$$
Semiconductors and Semimetals
Save
This comprehensive reference work on the properties of semiconductors and semimetals. It valuable resource for anyone working in this field.
Semiconductors for Room Temperature Nuclear...
Hardcover
$$$
High Speed Heterostructure Devices (Volume 41)...
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
Fundamentals of Semiconductors
Save
This textbook is commonly used in academic settings. It thorough resource for understanding the core physics and materials properties of semiconductors.
Fundamentals of Semiconductors
Paperback
Check
Fundamentals of Semiconductors
Kindle Edition
Check
Kittel's Introduction to Solid State Physics
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of solid state physics. It valuable resource for anyone working in this field.
Kittel's Introduction to Solid State Physics
Paperback
Check
Kittel's Introduction to Solid State Physics
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Electronic Properties of Materials
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the electronic properties of materials. It valuable resource for anyone working in this field.
Electronic Properties of Materials
Paperback
Check
Electronic Properties of Materials
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Low-dimensional Semiconductors
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the physics of semiconductor devices. It valuable resource for anyone working in this field.
Low-dimensional Semiconductors
Paperback
Check
Low-dimensional Semiconductors
Kindle Edition
Check
Electrical Properties of Materials
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the electrical properties of materials. It valuable resource for anyone working in this field.
Electrical Properties of Materials
Paperback
$$$
Electrical Properties of Materials
Hardcover
$$$$
Electrical Properties of Materials
Kindle Edition
$$
Solid state electronic devices
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of solid state electronic devices. It is well-written and accessible to a wide audience.
Solid State Electronic Devices
Hardcover
$$$$
Materials Science and Engineering
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of materials science and engineering. It valuable resource for anyone working in this field.
Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction
Hardcover
$$$$
Callister's Materials Science and Engineering:...
Paperback
$$$
Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Paperback
$$$
Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction,...
Hardcover
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Fundamentals of Materials Science and Engineering:...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
WileyPLUS Single Semester Access Card for Materials...
Printed Access Code
$$$
Cover image
Topological Quantum
Save
Provides a concise and accessible overview of the basic concepts of solid state physics. It valuable resource for anyone working in this field.
Topological Quantum
Paperback
Check
Topological Quantum
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Semiconductor Material and Device Characterization
Save
Provides a detailed overview of the methods used to characterize semiconductor materials and devices. It valuable reference for anyone working in this field.
Semiconductor Material and Device Characterization
Hardcover
$$$$
Semiconductor Material and Device Characterization...
Unknown Binding
$$$$
Semiconductor Material and Device Characterization...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Introductory Circuit Analysis, Global Edition
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of electronic devices and circuit theory. It valuable resource for anyone working in this field.
Introductory Circuit Analysis, Global Edition
Paperback
Check
Introductory Circuit Analysis, Global Edition
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Arizona State University
Instructor
Terry Alford
Language
English
This course belongs to a collection called Materials Science for Advanced Technological Applications. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Ceramics and Composites
  2. Phase Diagrams
  3. Electrical Properties and Semiconductors (viewing)
  4. Hardening, Polymers, Properties
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores electrical properties and semiconductors, which are foundational concepts in electronics and electrical engineering
Taught by Terry Alford, who is an expert in the field of electrical engineering
Provides a strong foundation for understanding the electrical behavior of materials and devices
Covers key topics such as electrical conductivity, semiconductors, and semiconductor devices
Examines the differences in electrical behavior of p-type versus n-type semiconductors in a p-n diode, which is a core concept in semiconductor physics
Requires some background knowledge in physics and mathematics, which may not be suitable for complete beginners
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