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Photonics Dictionary

active layer

In the context of semiconductors and electronics, the active layer is the part of a semiconductor device where the essential electronic activities take place. This includes the movement and interaction of charge carriers (electrons and holes) which are critical for the device's functionality. The active layer is typically doped with impurities to control its electrical properties and is where most of the current flows and the primary electronic operations occur.

For example:

Transistors: In a field-effect transistor (FET), the active layer is where the channel forms between the source and drain, allowing current to flow when a voltage is applied to the gate.

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs): The active layer is the region where electron-hole recombination occurs, producing light.

Photovoltaic cells: The active layer is where light absorption generates electron-hole pairs, which are then separated to produce an electric current.

The properties and behavior of the active layer are crucial for the performance and efficiency of the semiconductor device.
 

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