Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Microelectronics

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Microelectronics 1. Voltage vs. Current Voltage and current are two fundamental concepts in microelectronics. While voltage refers to the potential difference between two points, current is the flow of electric charge. Think of voltage as the 'push' and current as the 'flow' of electrons in a circuit. 2. Resistance vs. Impedance Resistance and impedance both relate to the opposition of electric current. However, resistance is specific to DC circuits, while impedance is used for AC circuits. Additionally, resistance is a scalar quantity, whereas impedance is a complex quantity, incorporating both magnitude and phase. 3. Transistor vs. Diode Transistors and diodes are essential components in microelectronics. A transistor acts as an amplifier or a switch, controlling the flow of current. On the other hand, a diode allows current to flow in only one direction, acting as a 'one-way street' for electrons. 4. Frequency vs. Period Frequency and period are inversely related. Frequency refers to the number of cycles per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). Period, on the other hand, is the time taken to complete one cycle. Remember, the higher the frequency, the shorter the period.