Which method does a semiconductor detector use to identify ionizing radiation?

A semiconductor detector identifies ionizing radiation through the process of electron-hole pair creation. When ionizing radiation interacts with the semiconductor material, it deposits energy into the crystal lattice, which results in the excitation of electrons. This interaction frees an electron from its atomic bond, creating a "hole" where the electron once was. The pairs of electrons and holes can then drift under an applied electric field, leading to a measurable current that corresponds to the energy and type of radiation detected.

This method is highly sensitive and allows for precise measurement of radiation levels. Additionally, the energy of the resulting electron-hole pairs can be related to the energy of the incoming radiation, making semiconductor detectors effective for identifying and quantifying various ionizing radiation types.

The other methods listed do not accurately represent how semiconductor detectors function. For example, sound wave generation, thermal emission, and optical detection do not involve the mechanism of charge pair creation that is fundamental to the operation of semiconductor-based radiation detectors.