Question

In terms of electron energy band structure, discuss reasons for the difference in electrical conductivity between metals, semiconductors, and insulators.

Answer 1

Answer:

• electron bands are present inside atoms which is responsible for conducting electricity.
• we can divide substances in base of their conductance in mainly as 3 types .
• they are as follows

1. conductor
2. semi conductor
3. insulator

• inside the conductor atom energy bands are present overlapping each other. so they conduct electricity very easily.
• inside a semiconductor atom electron bands are present some distance apart. so they don't conduct electricity at normal temperature and pressure and thus behaves like a insulator. when temperature is given the energy bands comes close to each other and then conduct electricity. so, semiconductor behave like both insulator and conducter.
• in case of insulator energy bands are present far away from each other. so electrons can not Jump from one another.so they do not conduct electricity.