Question

Classify metals using energy band diagrams

Answer 1

Based on the ability of various materials to conduct current, the materials are classified as conductors,

insulators and the semiconductors.

A metal which is very good carrier of electricity is called conductor. The copper and aluminium

are good examples of a conductor

A very poor conductor of electricity is termed as insulator. The glass, wood, mica, diamond are the

examples of an insulator.

A metal having conductivity which is between conductor and an insulator is

called semiconductor. The silicon and germanium are the examples of a

semiconductor. This does not conduct current at low temperatures but as temperature increases

these materials behave as good conductors..