Question

What is the difference between Germanium and Silicon?

Answer 1

We know that the pure silicon and germanium atom belong to the group fourteen of the periodic table, having four valence electrons forming covalent bonds in the diamond-like crystal lattice, thus making it a poor conductor.

Complete answer:
As we know, the diode in an electrical circuit allows current to flow more easily in one direction than another. Forward biasing means putting a voltage across a diode that allows current to flow easily, while reverse biasing means putting a voltage across a diode in the opposite direction. The Forward bias decreases the resistance of the diode whereas the reversed bias increases the resistance of the diode. The periodic table has elements which have their properties ranging between the metals and non-metals and thus show transitional behaviour. The temperature and dopant also play an important role in enhancing the properties of the element.
The silicon and germanium have equal numbers of holes and electrons within it, so even in the absence of any extra element (dopant) added to it, it still shows its conducting properties. Thus, making it an intrinsic semiconductor. The process of doping, that is, the addition of the extra elements in the semiconductor makes it an n-type or p-type depending on the carrier electrons/holes produced, on adding a Group $15$ and Group $13$ elements respectively. Silicon and germanium have four valence electrons but at the given temperature germanium will have more free electrons and higher conductivity than silicon. Silicon is more widely used in electronic devices than germanium since it can be used at a higher temperature.

Note:
Remember that the conductivity of the semiconductor is low at room temperature but it increases with the increase in temperature, unlike the general metallic conductors, where the atomic vibration increases with temperature and hinders the movement of electrons.