A discrete semiconductor is an individual electronic component that performs a specific electronic function.
The types of discrete semiconductors include diodes, transistors, thyristors, and integrated circuits.
A diode is a semiconductor device that allows current to flow in one direction but not the other.
A transistor is a semiconductor device that can amplify or switch electronic signals.
A thyristor is a semiconductor device that is similar to a transistor, but can handle high voltage and current levels.
An integrated circuit is a semiconductor device that contains many electronic components on a single tiny chip.
A P-N junction is a boundary between a p-type semiconductor and an n-type semiconductor, where the doping concentration changes abruptly.
Doping is the intentional introduction of impurities into a semiconductor material to change its electrical conductivity.
A semiconductor material is a material with electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and that of an insulator.
A forward-biased diode is a diode that allows current to flow in the direction of the arrow on its symbol, from anode to cathode.
A reverse-biased diode is a diode that blocks current flow in the direction of the arrow on its symbol, from cathode to anode, but allows a small leakage current.
A field-effect transistor is a type of transistor that uses an electric field to control the flow of current through it.
A bipolar junction transistor is a type of transistor that uses both electrons and holes as charge carriers.
A MOSFET (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor) is a type of transistor that is commonly used in digital and analog circuits.
A capacitor is a device that stores electrical energy in an electric field.
A resistor is a device that resists the flow of electrical current.
A zener diode is a special type of diode that is designed to allow current to flow in reverse direction when a certain voltage level is reached.
A LED (light-emitting diode) is a type of diode that emits light when current flows through it.
A varistor is a type of resistor that has a varying resistance depending on the applied voltage.
A photoresistor is a type of resistor that changes its resistance in response to light intensity.