What occurs during thermal runaway in semiconductors?

During thermal runaway in semiconductors, increased temperature causes decreased resistance and higher current flow. When a semiconductor device experiences an increase in temperature, its resistance typically decreases. This is due to the intrinsic properties of the semiconductor material; as the temperature rises, more charge carriers (electrons and holes) become available, allowing for easier electrical conduction.

As current flow increases with the reduction in resistance, it can lead to additional heating due to the power dissipation in the form of heat (P = I^2R). This cycle can continue, resulting in an even higher temperature and further reduction in resistance, ultimately leading to a condition where the device may fail or be damaged due to excessive heat. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for designing circuits and systems that can handle thermal management effectively, thereby avoiding the detrimental effects of thermal runaway.