The following diagrams show the electron populations of the bands of MO energy levels for four different materials: (a) Classify each material as an insulator, a semiconductor, or a conducting metal.

Verified step by step guidance

1. insert step 1> Identify the key characteristics of insulators, semiconductors, and conductors based on their molecular orbital (MO) energy levels.
2. insert step 2> For insulators, note that the valence band is fully occupied, and there is a large energy gap to the conduction band, which is empty.
3. insert step 3> For semiconductors, observe that the valence band is also fully occupied, but the energy gap to the conduction band is smaller than that of insulators, allowing some electron movement at higher temperatures.
4. insert step 4> For conductors, recognize that the valence band is partially filled, or the conduction band overlaps with the valence band, allowing free movement of electrons.
5. insert step 5> Examine each diagram and classify the material based on the electron population and the energy gap between the valence and conduction bands.

Key Concepts

Molecular Orbital Theory

Molecular Orbital (MO) Theory describes how atomic orbitals combine to form molecular orbitals, which can be occupied by electrons. In this theory, electrons are delocalized over the entire molecule, and the energy levels of these orbitals determine the electrical properties of materials. Understanding the arrangement and occupancy of these orbitals is crucial for classifying materials as insulators, semiconductors, or conductors.

Band Theory

Band Theory explains the behavior of electrons in solids by describing energy bands formed from the overlap of atomic orbitals. The key bands are the valence band (filled with electrons) and the conduction band (where electrons can move freely). The energy gap between these bands determines whether a material behaves as an insulator (large gap), semiconductor (small gap), or conductor (overlapping bands).

Electrical Conductivity

Electrical conductivity refers to a material's ability to conduct electric current, which is influenced by the availability of free electrons. Conductors have overlapping valence and conduction bands, allowing electrons to flow easily. In contrast, insulators have a significant energy gap preventing electron movement, while semiconductors have a smaller gap that can be overcome under certain conditions, such as temperature changes or doping.