Having a basic knowledge of semiconductors is important for all staff here at Micron Technology. Why are some semiconductors made of silicon?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

As you prepare to interview with a worldwide leader in innovative solutions in the semiconductor industry, having a strong grasp of Micron Technology's product line of storage devices will be very beneficial for your interview. To ensure that you have a good understanding of the industry, your interviewer may pose a question like this to ensure that you've done your homework and that you would come to their team with a strong base knowledge of the overall business at Micron.

If you are being interviewed at Micron Technology for an engineering or production-based position, you likely have some deep knowledge of this topic and your interviewer will expect you to dive deep in your answer. But if you don't have experience in semiconductors and memory solutions, you should make sure that you do some research on the products. As you answer this specific question, it's important to point out that silicon is able to handle the elevated temperatures of electronics and that it has the conductive properties of metal as an insulator.

"The atomic structure of pure silicon lends itself very well to being used as a semiconductor because it is first and foremost highly stable. It resists water, acid, and steam in highly volatile situations. It's also very versatile in the fact that it has the ability to conduct like a metal, but is also an insulator that can block electricity. The fact that it is so widely available has also likely helped in its usage with companies like Micron Technology."

"From my understanding, some semiconductors are made of silicon because it has the ability to be used at much higher temperatures that are the norm in some electronics. Are there any other reasons that some products here at Micron Technology utilize silicon?"