The present invention is a semiconductor structure for light emitting devices
that can emit in the red to ultraviolet portion of the electromagnetic spectrum.
The structure includes a first n-type cladding layer of AlxInyGa1-x-yN,
where 0x1 and 0y1 and (x+y)1; a second n-type
cladding layer of AlxInyGa1-x-yN, where 0x1
and 0y1 and (x+y)1, wherein the second n-type cladding layer
is further characterized by the substantial absence of magnesium; an active portion
between the first and second cladding layers in the form of a multiple quantum
well having a plurality of InxGa1-xN well layers where 0x1
separated by a corresponding plurality of AlxInyGa1-x-yN
barrier layers where 0x1 and 0y1; a p-type layer
of a Group III nitride, wherein the second n-type cladding layer is positioned
between the p-type layer and the multiple quantum well; and wherein the first and
second n-type cladding layers have respective bandgaps that are each larger than
the bandgap of the well layers. In preferred embodiments, a Group III nitride superlattice
supports the multiple quantum well.