Does this mean what I think it means?

[user101]

Hi - I was reading a physics thesis paper for a friend (proofreading) and I kind of deduced this point from his paper (one paragraph from it):

The energy levels of an atom become the energy bands of a solid... Now could this be because of the energy that would need to be radiated in order for an electron to move from, let's say, the valence band to the conduction band? And if you were to draw the potential energy diagrams, it would be similar to a diagram of energy bands in a solid?

I'm a little bit confused and just to let you know, I'm a junior physics major, so don't throw anything hardcore at me :p

 

[Jhero]

Hello,

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and questions about this topic. I can confirm that your deduction is correct. The energy levels of an atom do indeed become the energy bands of a solid. This is due to the fact that when atoms come together to form a solid, their energy levels combine and form energy bands. This is because the electrons in each atom interact with each other and form a more complex energy structure.

Regarding your question about the movement of electrons from the valence band to the conduction band, it is important to note that this process requires energy. When an electron absorbs enough energy, it can move from the valence band to the conduction band, making the material conductive. This is similar to the potential energy diagrams you mentioned, as they also illustrate the energy levels and potential for movement of electrons in a solid.

I hope this helps clarify your understanding of this concept. Keep up the good work in your studies!