Which of the following is known as indirect band gap semiconductorsSelect one:a. Goldb. Carbonc.Germaniumd. Nickel

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the characteristics of indirect band gap semiconductors.
2. Consider the properties of each option: gold, carbon, germanium, and nickel.

Relevant Concepts

1. Band Gap: The energy difference between the valence band and the conduction band in semiconductors.
2. Direct vs. Indirect Band Gap: In direct band gap semiconductors, electrons can directly transition between the valence and conduction bands without a change in momentum, while in indirect band gap semiconductors, this transition requires a change in momentum, often facilitated by phonons.

Analysis and Detail

1. Gold (Au): A metal, not a semiconductor.
2. Carbon (C): Exists in forms like graphite and diamond, which do not have a traditional band gap structure to categorize as semiconductors.
3. Germanium (Ge): A well-known semiconductor, classified as an indirect band gap semiconductor.
4. Nickel (Ni): Primarily a metal, not categorized as a semiconductor.

Verify and Summarize

The only option from the list that is a semiconductor and classified as an indirect band gap semiconductor is germanium.

Final Answer

c. Germanium