Non-stoichiometric cuprous oxide, `Cu_(2)O` can be prepared in laboratory. In this oxide, copper to oxygen ratio is slightly less than `2 : 1`. Can you account for the fact that this substance is a p-type semiconductor ?

Explanation

As the ratio is less than `2: 1`, it indicates that some `Cu^(+)` ions have been replaced by `Cu^(2+)` ions. For every two `Cu^(+)` ions displaced from the lattice site, one `Cu^(2+)` ion will be replaced to maintain electrical neutrality. Thus, for every `Cu^(2+)` in the lattice, one hole will be created. These positive holes will be responsible for conduction of electricity. Hence, it is a p-type conductor.