Draw the bands of MO energy levels and the electron population for: (a) A semiconductor (b) An electrical insulator Explain why a semiconductor has the higher electrical conductivity.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the valence band and conduction band in the energy level diagram for both the semiconductor and the electrical insulator.
2. Note the electron population in the valence band and conduction band for both materials. In the semiconductor, some electrons are in the conduction band, while in the insulator, the conduction band is empty.
3. Draw the energy level diagram for a semiconductor, showing the valence band partially filled with electrons and the conduction band with some electrons.
4. Draw the energy level diagram for an electrical insulator, showing the valence band fully filled with electrons and the conduction band empty.
5. Explain that a semiconductor has higher electrical conductivity because it has electrons in the conduction band that can move and conduct electricity, whereas an insulator has no electrons in the conduction band, preventing electrical conductivity.

Key Concepts

Band Theory of Solids

Band theory explains the electronic structure of solids, where energy levels are grouped into bands. The valence band is filled with electrons, while the conduction band is typically empty. The energy gap between these bands determines the electrical properties of materials: conductors have overlapping bands, semiconductors have a small gap, and insulators have a large gap.

Electrical Conductivity

Electrical conductivity refers to a material's ability to conduct electric current. In semiconductors, the small energy gap allows electrons to be thermally excited from the valence band to the conduction band, enabling current flow. In contrast, insulators have a larger gap, making it difficult for electrons to move, resulting in low conductivity.

Doping in Semiconductors

Doping is the intentional introduction of impurities into a semiconductor to modify its electrical properties. By adding donor or acceptor atoms, the number of charge carriers (electrons or holes) can be increased, enhancing conductivity. This process is crucial for creating p-type and n-type semiconductors, which are essential for electronic devices.