Electrical Engineering

Materials whose primary historical significance is electrical and electronic function: conductors, semiconductors and specialty compounds used in circuits, power systems and electronic devices. Belongs here: copper as the standard electrical conductor, silicon and silicon carbide as semiconductor materials, gallium arsenide as a compound semiconductor, and rare earth elements as used in magnets and electronics. Does not belong here: structural or construction materials whose primary role is mechanical strength or building fabric, grouped under Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering or Materials Engineering.