CM4254 - CHEMISTRY OF SEMICONDUCTORS

Module Overview: ​Semiconductor basics (band theory/energy level diagrams/doping), Semiconductor growth and processing (Czochralski process), diodes, solar cells, LED, MOSFETs 

Overall Difficulty: Difficult

Difficulty of Assessment:

Lab Quiz 1: Average 

Lab Quiz 2: Easy 

Mid Terms: Easy 

Finals: Easy  

Pace of Module: Just Nice

Enjoyability: 5/5

Usefulness: 2/5

Workload of Module (Average Number of hours spent per week):

To learn the content: 5 hours

To complete assignments: 2 hours

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How did you find the contents (how it was delivered) and the assessments of the module?

Some basics of band theory and energy level diagrams are covered together with doping concepts, the first chapter involves a lot of calculations, but equations will be given in exams. Second chapter on silicon growth involves a lot of memory work and is quite dry. The third chapter of diode is important as it is the basic concept for the remaining 3 chapters on solar cells, LEDs and MOSFETs. Be sure to know how each class of semiconductor works and how to interpret energy level diagrams. Prof Chua Lay-Lay does speak quite fast, but she also gives a lot of hints for the exams. Lab portion involves watching videos on basic semiconductor fabrication, cleaning, etc. Lab quizzes are open-book while lecture exams are closed-book. 

 

How was your experience with the module?

This module requires a lot of memory work, especially for the closed book lecture exams, Prof Chua Lay-Lay likes to test on those small parts of the topics, so do listen in lecture as she elaborates quite a lot during lectures. For the lab portion, other than watching the video, you should attend the summary lecture on the lab portion by Prof Chua as she would drop a lot of hints. This module would be useful if you are interested in the semiconductor industry as it gives you a basic introduction into the principle of different semiconductors. Prof Chua also gives a lot of insight into the semiconductor industry and current hot research topics in the field.