What are semiconductors and why is Trump targeting them?

Semiconductors, also sometimes referred to as microchips or integrated circuits, are made from tiny fragments of raw materials, such as silicon.

They are altered through a process called doping in order to sometimes conduct electricity and sometimes not. This allows them to be used as electronic switches, speaking the binary language of 0s and 1s that underpins computing.

Semiconductors are used in devices such as smartphones and laptops, as well as in vehicles with electronic control systems, remote car keys and sensors.

They are also in routers, switches, and communication infrastructures that form the backbone of the internet, enabling global connectivity.

When it comes to sustainability, they can be found in wind turbines and solar farms.

In healthcare, they are in medical devices and equipment as well as implantable technology, like pacemakers and insulin pumps.