Answered: How does the bandgap differ in metals,…

University Physics Volume 3

17th Edition

ISBN:9781938168185

Author:William Moebs, Jeff Sanny

Publisher:William Moebs, Jeff Sanny

Chapter9: Condensed Matter Physics

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 67P: What is the main difference between an insulator and a semiconductor?

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How does the bandgap differ in metals, semiconductors, and insulators?

Expert Solution

Step 1

The bandgap is the difference between the energies of the conduction band and valance band.

The conduction band is a location where all the electrons that can conduct the electricity are placed. While the valance band is the place where the electrons of the valance shell of the atom are placed.

For metals:

In the case of metals, the conduction band and valance band overlap each other. This means the electrons of the valance shell can easily conduct electricity without the supply of any external energy.

Thus, there is no bandgap in the case of metals.

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