Chapter 8, Problem 6CO

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Electrical properties in metals, insulators and semiconductors should be explained with reference to the concept of chemical bonding.

Concept introduction:

• Chemical bonds are essentially forces of attraction between atoms (molecules or ions) that hold the solid together.
• Bonding in solids can be explained based on band diagram, which is an electron energy level diagram that employs the concept of valence and conduction bands
• Solids can be classified as metals, semiconductors and insulators based the gap or the energetic distance between the valence and conduction bands
• Electrical properties of solids arise due to the movement of electrons in the conduction bands.