The following video shows how the band model and the lattice structure of a semiconductor (here silicon) are related. The band model is a central foundation for understanding conduction processes in semiconductors.
Note: The video was produced in HD quality. The quality has been significantly reduced in the YouTube player. You can download the video in high resolution below. To play the video in acceptable quality here, the setting “HD 1080p” must be selected in the YouTube player.
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Description
In the video, the viewer takes a virtual flight into a silicon crystal. A row of atoms connected by electron pair bonds is then examined. In the band model, the distances between atoms are plotted on the x-axis. The band model is a spatial model only with respect to the x-coordinate. The energy level can be read on the y-axis.
Overview and Download
| Title | Band Model in Semiconductors |
| Target Audience | Teachers and lecturers |
| Features | Full-screen mode Lossless scaling Large screens and projectors supported | Licence | Freeware (for non-commercial use) |
| Download | Download |
Educational Concept
The animation is designed to introduce learners with little prior knowledge of semiconductor technology to the band model. Content that is normally derived purely mathematically and abstractly is presented as a spatial representation.
Model Limitations
The y-axis of the band model represents the energy level. It is not a spatial coordinate. The x-axis, however, is a spatial coordinate and represents the distances between the atomic cores.
The 3D model must not lead to the assumption that the band model can be derived solely from the lattice structure of a semiconductor crystal.
Contributors
C. Hein, S. Rikowski
Sources
Tool used: POV-Ray: http://www.povray.org/