Chapter 24, Problem 24.26QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The structural or bonding aspect of graphite and carbon nanotubes that allows their use as semiconductors, whereas diamond as an electrical insulator has to be explained

Concept Introduction:

The property of a chemical element to exist in two or more different forms is called as allotropy. The different forms of an element are termed as allotropes. Some elements that exhibit allotropy are carbon, tin, sulphur, oxygen and phosphorus

The substance that has the tendency to conduct electricity is called as conductor whereas the substance that does not conduct electricity is termed as insulator. Semiconductors are substances that conduct electricity either by addition of an impurity or by the effects of temperature on it. Semiconductor’s electrically conductivity lies between conductor and insulator.

In terms of band theory, the energy separation between the valence band and

Conduction band determines whether a material is conductor, semiconductor or insulator.