Holes

Definition

Holes in crystalline solids are vacant lattice sites where an atom or ion would normally reside. These vacancies can affect the physical properties and behaviors of the material.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Holes play a crucial role in determining the electrical conductivity of materials, especially semiconductors.
2. The presence of holes can lead to defects in the crystal structure, impacting mechanical strength and thermal properties.
3. Holes are usually formed during the crystallization process or as a result of external influences such as radiation.
4. In ionic crystals, holes can be associated with either cationic or anionic vacancies.
5. The concentration and distribution of holes within a crystal lattice can be measured using techniques like X-ray diffraction.

Review Questions

• How do holes influence the electrical conductivity of semiconductors?
• What are some common methods used to detect and measure holes in crystalline solids?
• Describe how the presence of holes might affect the mechanical strength of a material.

Related terms

Lattice Structure: A regular arrangement of atoms, ions, or molecules in a crystalline solid.

Interstitial Sites: Positions within a crystal lattice where atoms or ions that do not occupy regular lattice points reside.

Point Defects:

Imperfections located at a single point in the crystal lattice, including vacancies (holes), interstitials, and substitutional defects.