P-type Semiconductors
P-type semiconductors are materials that have been doped with elements that create "holes," or positive charge carriers. This is typically achieved by adding elements from group III of the periodic table, such as boron or aluminum, to a pure semiconductor like silicon. The presence of these holes allows for the conduction of electricity, as electrons from neighboring atoms can move into these holes, facilitating current flow.
In a P-type semiconductor, the majority charge carriers are holes, while the minority carriers are electrons. This behavior is crucial in the functioning of electronic devices, such as diodes and transistors, where P-type materials are often paired with N-type semiconductors to form junctions that control electrical current.