A Review of Semiconductor Nanophysics

Abstract

Semiconductor nanophysics is a rapidly advancing field that investigates the physical properties and behavior of semiconductor materials at nanometer length scales, where quantum confinement, surface effects, and reduced dimensionality strongly influence electronic, optical, and thermal characteristics. As device dimensions approach the nanoscale, classical semiconductor physics becomes insufficient, and quantum mechanical effects dominate carrier transport and light–matter interactions. Semiconductor nanostructures such as quantum wells, quantum wires, quantum dots, nanowires, and two-dimensional materials have enabled revolutionary advances in nanoelectronics, optoelectronics, photonics, and quantum technologies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles, nanostructure types, fabrication approaches, and physical phenomena governing semiconductor nanophysics. Comparative analysis of key nanostructures is presented, followed by discussion of technological applications, challenges, and future research directions.