What is a compound semiconductor?

Compound semiconductors are materials made from two or more elements, typically from different groups in the periodic table, such as gallium arsenide (GaAs) or indium phosphide (InP). Unlike silicon, which is a single-element semiconductor, compound semiconductors offer unique electrical and optical properties that make them essential for high-speed electronics, optoelectronic devices, and advanced communication systems. They are widely used in applications like LEDs, laser diodes, solar cells, and 5G devices because of their high electron mobility and ability to operate at higher frequencies.