Conductor vs Semiconductor — Difference (with Table & FAQs)
Conductors allow electricity to flow freely while semiconductors have limited conductivity. Semiconductors are crucial for modern electronics studied in CB
TL;DR: Conductors allow electricity to flow freely while semiconductors have limited conductivity. Semiconductors are crucial for modern electronics studied…
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
The main difference between Conductor and Semiconductor: Conductors allow electricity to flow freely while semiconductors have limited conductivity. Semiconductors are crucial for modern electronics studied in CB
Conductor vs Semiconductor — Comparison Table
| Basis | Conductor | Semiconductor |
|---|---|---|
| Conductivity | Very high | Moderate |
| Resistance | Very low | Medium |
| Free electrons | Many free electrons | Few free electrons |
| Temperature effect | Conductivity decreases with heat | Conductivity increases with heat |
| Examples | Copper, aluminum, silver | Silicon, germanium |
Key Points
- Conductors are used for wiring electricity
- Semiconductors are used in transistors and diodes
- Purity affects semiconductor conductivity
- Semiconductors can be doped to change properties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a conductor and a semiconductor?
A conductor (like copper) lets electric current flow easily because it has many free electrons. A semiconductor (like silicon) conducts only partially — its conductivity lies between that of a conductor and an insulator.
Give examples of conductors and semiconductors.
Conductors: copper, aluminium, silver, iron. Semiconductors: silicon and germanium.
How does temperature affect a semiconductor?
Unlike a metal conductor, a semiconductor’s conductivity increases as temperature rises, because more electrons become free to move.