band_theory_of_solids
Band Theory of Solids
The most important result of the application of quantum mechanics to the description of electrons in a solid is the allowed energy levels of electrons will be grouped into bands.
The bands are separated by regions of energies the electrons in the solid can not possess. Theses regions are called forbidden gaps or band gaps.
The electrons in the outer most shell of the atoms in a solid, the valence electrons, are shown in the picture below in their lowest energy state. The band of these states is called the valence band.
INSERT PICTURE.
Conduction or the motion of electrons is the principal intrest in the study of semiconductor physics.
Conduction is only possible if one can impart kinetic energy to an electron.
Let's look at three different classes of materials in terms of both the atomistic representation and from the energy band representation on if we can impart energy to an electron.
band_theory_of_solids.txt · Last modified: 2015/07/29 20:12 by admin