A semiconductor is a substance that has specific electrical properties that enable it to serve as a foundation for computers and other electronic devices
. It is typically a solid chemical element or compound that conducts electricity under certain conditions. Semiconductors have properties that sit between the conductor and insulator. A diode, integrated circuit (IC), and transistor are all made from semiconductors
. Semiconductors are an essential component of electronic devices, enabling advances in communications, computing, healthcare, military systems, transportation, clean energy, and countless other applications
. The specific properties of a semiconductor depend on the impurities -- known as dopants -- added to it
