Semiconductor — Hall Coefficient SignHardQuestion 20262
Question
The sign of the Hall coefficient R_H distinguishes:
- An-type (R_H > 0) from p-type (R_H < 0)
- Bn-type (R_H < 0) from p-type (R_H > 0)Correct
- CHigh doping from low doping
- DDirect from indirect bandgap semiconductors
Correct answer
n-type (R_H < 0) from p-type (R_H > 0)
Explanation
R_H = E_H/(J×B) = 1/(nq) for n-type → negative (conventional sign with electrons). For p-type with holes: R_H = +1/(pq) → positive. The sign of R_H directly tells you the dominant carrier type, and its magnitude gives carrier density n or p.