5.76. Electronic Component http://www.ck12.org
FIGURE 5.165
- A diode is an electronic component consisting of two semiconductors. It is used to change alternating current
to direct current. - A transistor is an electronic component consisting of three semiconductors. It can be used to turn current on
or off or to increase current. - An integrated circuit (microchip) is an electronic component that consists of many other electronic components
such as transistors. Integrated circuits are used in virtually all modern electronic devices to carry out specific
tasks.
Vocabulary
- semiconductor: Solid crystal—usually consisting mainly of silicon—that can conduct current better than an
electric insulator but not as well as an electric conductor; found in electronic components.
Explore More
Explore the semiconductor animation at the following URL, and then answer the questions below. http://www.ustud
y.in/node/3503
- How can you make the semiconductor a p-type semiconductor? How do the positive “holes” flow in this type
of semiconductor? - What do you have to do to change the semiconductor to an n-type semiconductor? How do the electrons flow
in this type of semiconductor?
Review
- What are electronic components?
- Compare and contrast n-type and p-type semiconductors.
- Describe the structure and function of a diode.
- How does a transistor act as a switch?
- Explain how the size of an integrated circuit helps it carry out tasks with incredible speed.