What type of electrons do semiconductors have when compared to conductors?

Semiconductors have fewer free electrons compared to conductors. In conductors, the atomic structure allows for a high number of free electrons that can move easily throughout the material, facilitating the flow of electric current. In contrast, semiconductors, which are materials such as silicon or germanium, have a unique atomic structure that results in a smaller number of free electrons.

This characteristic is crucial for their functionality; semiconductors can conduct electricity under certain conditions (like the addition of impurities in a process known as doping) but not as freely as conductors. This property is what makes semiconductors versatile for various electronic applications, such as diodes and transistors, which play essential roles in modern electronic devices.

Understanding the behavior of electrons in these different materials is fundamental in electrical engineering and helps in the development of technology that relies on controlled electrical conductivity.