Which type of semiconductor is characterized by having the majority of charge carriers as positive?

A P-type semiconductor is characterized by having the majority of charge carriers as positive, specifically in the form of "holes." Holes are the absence of electrons in the crystal structure of the semiconductor, and they act as positive charge carriers because they can accept electrons. This occurs when a semiconductor material, such as silicon, is doped with certain elements that have fewer valence electrons, typically from group III of the periodic table, such as boron. These dopants create extra holes in the semiconductor lattice, thus increasing the number of positive charge carriers.

The presence of these holes is significant because it affects the electrical conductivity of the material. In a P-type semiconductor, the movement of holes constitutes the flow of electric charge, allowing the material to conduct electricity. This is in contrast to N-type semiconductors, where the majority carriers are negatively charged electrons, resulting from the doping with elements that have more valence electrons, such as phosphorus.

Understanding the distinction between N-type and P-type semiconductors, as well as their respective charge carriers, is fundamental in the study of semiconductor physics and is essential for various applications in electronics and technology.