Which property of a semiconductor allows it to switch between conduction and insulation?

The property of a semiconductor that allows it to switch between conduction (allowing electrical current to flow) and insulation (preventing current flow) is primarily related to electrostatic charges. Semiconductors, such as silicon, have properties that change when they are exposed to external electric fields.

In the case of electrostatic charges, when a semiconductor is subjected to these charges, it can alter the energy levels of the electrons within the material. This means that when an appropriate voltage is applied, the semiconductor can move from an insulating state (where the current is blocked) to a conducting state (where current can flow). This characteristic is fundamental to electronics, as it forms the basis of many devices, such as transistors and diodes, which utilize this ability to control the flow of electricity in circuits.

Temperature control, voltage levels, and pressure changes do play roles in the behavior of semiconductors, but the direct mechanism for switching between conduction and insulation is most accurately described by the influence of electrostatic charges on the material's properties.