Then−p−nJunction as a Model for Secondary Photoconductivity

Abstract

A germanium $n-p-n$ junction with the $p$ region floating, has been subjected to alpha-particle bombardment. The transient currents resulting from individual incident alphas have been studied. This enables one to study the rate of decay of excess holes in the $p$-region. This decay time appears to increase with applied bias, pass through a maximum, and eventually approach a constant value. The total charge flowing across the unit, as a result of the bombardment by a single alpha-particle, may become large; quantum yields of greater than 60 have been observed.