In an intrinsic semiconductor, the relation between the numbers of holes \( (n_h) \) and conduction electrons \( (n_e) \) will be
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → \( n_h = n_e \)
An intrinsic semiconductor is a pure semiconductor with no dopant. Its free charge carriers are produced only by thermal breaking of covalent bonds: every electron that moves to the conduction band leaves exactly one hole behind.
\( n_e = n_h = n_i \)
Here \( n_i \) is the intrinsic carrier concentration. Unequal numbers of holes and electrons are found only in doped (extrinsic) semiconductors: \( n_h \gt n_e \) in p-type and \( n_h \lt n_e \) in n-type.
NCERT (2026-27):
Intrinsic Semiconductor – “… In intrinsic semiconductors, the number of free electrons, ne is equal to the number of holes, nh. That is
\( \displaystyle n_e = n_h = n_i \qquad (14.1) \)
where ni is called intrinsic carrier concentration.”