The world of electronics in the present day is built on the foundation of the tiny yet powerful electron. An entity that makes up a minuscule fraction of an atom, yet provides the backbone of the entire electronics industry. In this article, we will explore the basic functions of electrons and how they are utilized in our everyday lives.

Firstly, what is an electron? Electrons are subatomic particles that orbit around the nucleus of an atom. They possess a negative charge equal in magnitude to the positive charge of protons present in the nucleus, making them attracted to the positively charged nucleus. Electrons are crucial in chemical reactions as they are responsible for the bonding between atoms to form molecules.

One of the most significant applications of electrons is in generating electricity. When a wire with an electrical charge is placed near an uncharged wire, the electrons from the charged wire will move towards the uncharged wire, creating a flow of electrons through the wire, resulting in the production of electricity. This phenomenon is used in electric generators and power production plants.

Another significant application of electrons is found in semiconductors. Semiconductors are materials that possess electrical conductivity between that of a conductor and an insulator. The conductivity of a semiconductor can be modified by adding impurities or creating a small electric charge. This property of semiconductors is the basis of the entire electronics industry. The manipulation of conductivity allows for the control of electron flow, and the creation of electronic components such as transistors and diodes. Electronic components are the building blocks of devices such as smartphones, computers, and televisions.

The principles behind an electronic display such as a TV or computer monitor are based on the emission of electrons. The electrons are emitted from the cathode, accelerated towards the anode, and travel towards the screen, striking a phosphor-coated surface that emits light when struck by electrons. The pattern of electrons hitting the screen creates an image or video to be displayed, resulting in the screen emitting the required colors and intensity of light.

Electrons are also employed in the medical industry. In the field of nuclear medicine, electrons are used to create diagnostic images. The radioactive isotopes injected into the body emit electrons as they decay. The electrons are then detected by specialized cameras, allowing doctors to see the specific area of the body emitting the electrons. This method is used in procedures such as PET scans.

In conclusion, electrons play a crucial role in our daily lives. From electricity production to the workings of electronic devices, it is hard to overstate their significance. Without the manipulation and control of electrons, our world as we know it today would not be possible.