Step 1: Type of semiconductor.
In n-type semiconductors, the majority charge carriers are electrons, which are provided by the donor impurity atoms (usually pentavalent elements such as phosphorus). These extra electrons increase the conductivity of the material.
Step 2: Minority charge carriers.
The minority charge carriers in n-type semiconductors are holes. These are the empty spaces left when an electron moves, and they carry a positive charge. Since there are fewer holes than electrons, holes are the minority carriers.
Step 3: Elimination.
- (A) electrons: Incorrect, electrons are the majority charge carriers in n-type semiconductors.
- (B) holes: Correct, holes are the minority charge carriers in n-type semiconductors.
- (C) electron and hole: Incorrect, only holes are the minority charge carriers.
- (D) none of these: Incorrect.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Thus, in n-type semiconductors, the minority charge carriers are holes.