Drift current refers to the movement of charge carriers, such as electrons or holes, within a semiconductor or conductor in response to an electric field. Unlike diffusion current, which is caused by the concentration gradient of charge carriers, drift current occurs due to the influence of an applied electric field. When an electric field is applied across a material, it exerts a force on charge carriers, causing them to move in a directional flow. In conductors, like metals, the drift current is primarily due to the movement of free electrons. In semiconductors, it involves both electrons and holes. The speed of drift current is directly proportional to the magnitude of the electric field and the mobility of charge carriers within the material. Understanding drift current is crucial in electronics, as it contributes to the flow of current in devices like transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits, influencing their operational characteristics and performance.
