Semiconductor Physics: Fundamentals to Advanced Applications
Course Overview
This comprehensive course provides a systematic exploration of semiconductor physics, from fundamental quantum mechanical principles to cutting-edge device applications. Students will develop both theoretical understanding and practical problem-solving skills essential for careers in microelectronics, photonics, and nanotechnology.
This course integrates interactive MicroSims (small web-based simulations) to help students visualize the impact of fields on electrons and holes in silicon and other crystals.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
Knowledge and Comprehension (Remember & Understand)
- Define key concepts including energy bands, carrier statistics, and doping mechanisms
- Explain the quantum mechanical origins of semiconductor behavior
- Describe crystal structures and their impact on electronic properties
- Identify different types of semiconductor materials and their characteristics
- Recognize the fundamental physics governing charge transport in semiconductors
Application and Analysis (Apply & Analyze)
- Calculate carrier concentrations in intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors
- Solve problems involving drift and diffusion currents
- Analyze band diagrams for various semiconductor structures
- Apply continuity equations to model device behavior
- Determine operating characteristics of p-n junctions, diodes, and transistors
- Compare performance metrics across different device technologies
Evaluation and Creation (Evaluate & Create)
- Evaluate trade-offs in semiconductor device design choices
- Assess the suitability of different materials for specific applications
- Critique current research developments in semiconductor technology
- Design basic semiconductor devices to meet specified performance criteria
- Propose solutions to engineering challenges using semiconductor principles
- Develop models for novel device concepts
Course Content Structure
Foundation Modules
- Quantum mechanics review and statistical mechanics
- Crystal structure and reciprocal lattice concepts
- Band theory and effective mass approximation
- Intrinsic carrier statistics and Fermi-Dirac distribution
Core Device Physics
- Doping and extrinsic semiconductors
- Carrier transport mechanisms (drift, diffusion, generation-recombination)
- P-n junction physics and diode characteristics
- Bipolar junction transistors (BJTs)
- Field-effect transistors (MOSFETs, JFETs)
Advanced Topics
- Heterostructures and quantum wells
- Optoelectronic devices (LEDs, photodetectors, solar cells)
- High-frequency and power device considerations
- Semiconductor processing and fabrication impacts on device physics
- Emerging technologies (quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, 2D materials)
Assessment Methods
- Problem sets emphasizing quantitative analysis and design calculations
- Laboratory experiments involving device characterization and modeling
- Project-based assignments requiring critical evaluation of research literature
- Design challenges calling for creative application of semiconductor principles
- Comprehensive examinations testing understanding across all taxonomy levels
Prerequisites
- Solid foundation in calculus-based physics
- Basic quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics
- Differential equations and linear algebra
- Introduction to materials science concepts
This course serves as essential preparation for advanced studies in microelectronics, photonics, nanotechnology, and solid-state device engineering.