Final answer:
True, arresters do contain semiconductor blocks designed to safely redirect large currents to the ground during electrical surges. Semiconductors are also used to fabricate solid-state radiation detectors for converting radiation into electric current. Electric fields from conducting plates are utilized in various technologies, from screens to X-ray production.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is true; arresters do contain semiconductor blocks or discs designed to allow large currents to pass harmlessly to ground. These components act as protective devices in electrical systems, preventing excessive voltage from damaging equipment or interrupting service. For example, during a lightning strike or power surge, the arrester functions by diverting the high current to the ground instead of allowing it to flow through the electrical system, which could potentially cause damage. Semiconductor materials are ideal for this application because they can be designed to conduct electricity well at high voltages (thus allowing the dangerous current to pass to ground) but not at normal operating voltages, making them efficient for use in arresters.
Solid-state radiation detectors are another type of semiconductor device, but they are created for a different purpose. They are specially fabricated semiconductors that directly convert incident radiation into electrical current, which is used for measuring radiation levels in various applications, such as medical imaging and nuclear physics research.
Electric fields are a fundamental concept in physics, particularly in the operation of electrical equipment. For instance, a uniform electric field created by parallel conducting plates can accelerate electrons, which can be used in technology such as TV or computer screens to produce visible light, or in the production of X-rays.