What is a semiconductor?

A semiconductor is defined as a substance that can carry electricity under certain conditions. This characteristic sets semiconductors apart from conductors, which always allow the flow of electric current, and insulators, which do not conduct electricity at all. Semiconductors have unique properties that make them essential in electronic devices. For instance, their conductive properties can be altered by introducing impurities (doping) or by changing environmental conditions like temperature or light exposure.

This ability to control their conductivity is what enables semiconductors to function effectively in various applications, including transistors and diodes, which are fundamental components in modern electronics.