Concept:
Semiconductor devices replaced vacuum tubes because they offer many practical and technological advantages.
Examples of semiconductor devices:
• Diodes
• Transistors
• Integrated Circuits
Compared to vacuum tubes, semiconductors are:
• Smaller
• Faster
• More reliable
• More energy efficient
Step 1: Analyze statement A.
Statement A says:
\[
\text{Bigger size}
\]
This is incorrect because:
• Semiconductor devices are extremely compact.
• Vacuum tubes are bulky and large.
Therefore:
\[
A \text{ is incorrect}
\]
Step 2: Analyze statement B.
Statement B says:
\[
\text{More efficient}
\]
This is correct because:
• Semiconductor devices consume less power.
• They generate less heat.
• Their conversion efficiency is higher.
Thus:
\[
B \text{ is correct}
\]
Step 3: Analyze statement C.
Statement C says:
\[
\text{Higher operating voltages}
\]
This is incorrect because:
• Vacuum tubes generally operate at much higher voltages.
• Semiconductor devices usually require lower operating voltages.
Hence:
\[
C \text{ is incorrect}
\]
Step 4: Analyze statement D.
Statement D says:
\[
\text{No warm-up period}
\]
This is correct because:
• Vacuum tubes require filament heating.
• Semiconductor devices start operation immediately.
Therefore:
\[
D \text{ is correct}
\]
Step 5: Analyze statement E.
Statement E says:
\[
\text{More rugged}
\]
This is also correct because:
• Semiconductor devices are mechanically stronger.
• They are less fragile than vacuum tubes.
• They can tolerate vibration and shock better.
Thus:
\[
E \text{ is correct}
\]
Step 6: Write the final combination.
Correct statements are:
\[
B,\ D,\ E
\]
Thus the correct option is:
\[
\boxed{(B)}
\]
Step 7: Final conclusion.
Hence:
\[
\boxed{\text{Semiconductor devices are more efficient, require no warm-up period, and are more rugged.}}
\]