The process of a conduction electron falling into a hole is called ( A ) merging recombination ionization falling
Answer
⚡ Understanding Electron-Hole Recombination in Semiconductors
✅ Correct Answer: B. Recombination
📘 Detailed Explanation:
The process where a conduction electron loses energy and falls into a hole (an empty state in the valence band) is known as recombination.
- Conduction Electron: An electron that has enough energy to leave the valence band and participate in conduction.
- Hole: A vacant position left in the valence band when an electron moves to the conduction band. It acts like a positive charge carrier.
- Recombination: When a conduction electron fills a hole, energy is released, usually as heat or light (e.g., in LEDs).
❌ Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
- A. Merging: Not a standard term in semiconductor physics for this process.
- C. Ionization: Refers to the removal of an electron from an atom, not the filling of a hole.
- D. Falling: A vague term; not scientifically accurate in this context.
🧾 Summary:
✔️ Recombination is a critical process in semiconductors where a free electron falls into a hole, restoring the atomic structure and releasing energy in the process.