Physics 2011 JAMB Past Questions - Question 50: The electrical properties of germanium can be altered drastically by addition of impurities .This process is refereed to as

Correct Answer

B

Explanation

The process of altering the electrical properties of germanium (or any semiconductor) by adding controlled amounts of impurities is known as "doping." Doping involves intentionally introducing certain types of atoms or impurities into the semiconductor crystal lattice to modify its electrical conductivity. In the case of germanium, common dopants include elements like phosphorus or arsenic to create n-type (electron-rich) germanium, or elements like boron to create p-type (hole-rich) germanium. Doping is a fundamental technique in semiconductor device fabrication and is crucial for the operation of various electronic components such as diodes and transistors.