Question

Why is germanium preferred over silicon for making semiconductor devices?

Answer 1

Basically it depends on the for what application it is required. Germaniun is suitable for high current and high speed operation of device whereas silicon is preferred for its better thermal stability.

But silicon has various pro's over germanium as follows:-

1)Easy availability on the earths surface as well as under the surface.

2)Good thermal stability over the wide temperature range.

3)Easy growth of SiO2 layer which acts as a insulator.

So because if this reasons we can say that silicon is better semiconductor than germanium.

Answer 2

As the sensitivity and the conductivity of germanium is higher than that of silicon,,,,so germanium is preferred over silicon for making semiconductor devices.