Degenerate n-Type Semiconductor: In a degenerate n-type semiconductor material, where is the Fermi level located?

Introduction / Context:
Semiconductors can be intrinsic, extrinsic, or degenerate. A degenerate semiconductor is heavily doped so that the Fermi level shifts significantly compared to lightly doped materials.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Material: degenerate n-type.
• Extremely high donor concentration.

Concept / Approach:

In lightly doped n-type, EF is near conduction band. In degenerate case, EF shifts into the conduction band itself, behaving more like a metal.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Measured electrical conductivity in degenerate semiconductors supports metallic behavior, consistent with EF inside conduction band.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Valence band: describes p-type or degenerate p-type.
• Centre between bands: intrinsic case.
• Very near valence: wrong polarity.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing 'degenerate' with 'intrinsic.'

Final Answer:

in the conduction band