Information obtained from Hall coefficient of a single-carrier semiconductor Measuring the Hall coefficient RH of a semiconductor that has only one dominant type of charge carrier provides which information?

Introduction / Context:
The Hall effect is a fundamental characterization tool for semiconductors. By applying a magnetic field perpendicular to current flow, a transverse Hall voltage develops whose sign and magnitude reveal properties of the carriers.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Single dominant carrier type (electrons or holes).
• Uniform sample with known thickness and applied current.
• Magnetic field perpendicular to current.

Concept / Approach:

For a single-carrier semiconductor, the Hall coefficient is RH = E_H / (J B) = ± 1/(q n), with the sign positive for holes and negative for electrons. Thus, measuring RH immediately indicates carrier sign. Its magnitude gives n = 1/(|q| |RH|). If both electrons and holes contribute appreciably, RH becomes more complex; but the question specifies one type dominates, so RH yields both sign and density.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Mobility μ can be found only if conductivity σ is also measured, using σ = q n μ. The Hall measurement alone gives sign and density; pairing with σ yields mobility.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

(a) and (b) are incomplete; (d) contradicts Hall theory; (e) requires σ as well, not available from RH alone.

Common Pitfalls:

Ignoring multi-carrier effects or geometry corrections; ensure single dominant carrier and accurate thickness measurement.

Final Answer:

Both sign and density of the charge carrier