OVERVIEW
This model simulates the movement of free electrons and holes in various semiconductor types, including intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors, PN junctions, and solar cells. It allows students to explore the flow of electricity in a circuit that includes a semiconductor by observing how electrons and holes behave at the atomic level.
Grades: 6-12, College Physics/Chemistry
NGSS Standards: HS-PS4-5
Select one type of semiconductor
Click the "Start/reset" button to start or start over.
Click the "Run/Pause" button.
Observe:
Identify free electrons and holes in the semiconductor. How do they move?
How many holes and free electrons are in this type of semiconductor?
Click on the switch to close the circuit. How do the free electrons and holes move? You may click on the "follow an electron" button or the "follow a hole" button to track them. Can you explain the movements?
Click the battery to rotate its direction. How does it affect the movements of free electrons and holes? Can you explain the effects?
Click on Add photons when you choose the solar cell. How do the free electrons and holes move?
This model was made by Dr. Lin Xiang at the University of Kentucky, Dr. Katsu Ogawa at the University of Jamestown, North Dakota, and Mr. Tae Cooke at St. Bonaventure University. If you mention this model in a publication, we ask that you include the citations below,
Xiang, L. Ogawa, K. & Cooke, T. (2025). Semiconductors. University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY; University of Jamestown, ND; St. Bonaventure University, NY.
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 License. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/.
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