Explanation of Energy Bands in Solids

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SUMMARY

Energy bands in solids arise due to the close proximity of atoms, leading to a continuous distribution of energy levels rather than distinct individual levels. When two atomic orbitals interact, they form two new orbitals: one with lower energy and one with higher energy. This interaction results in a range of energies, known as an energy band, which is bounded by forbidden regions where no energy levels exist. The spacing between energy levels within the band is significantly smaller compared to the gaps in the forbidden regions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding atomic orbitals and their interactions
  • Familiarity with solid-state physics concepts
  • Knowledge of energy level distribution in quantum mechanics
  • Basic principles of band theory in materials science
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of band theory in solid-state physics
  • Explore the concept of forbidden energy gaps in semiconductors
  • Learn about the role of atomic proximity in energy band formation
  • Investigate the implications of energy bands on electrical conductivity in materials
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, materials scientists, and anyone interested in understanding the electronic properties of solids and the behavior of materials at the atomic level.

lotrsimp12345
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Homework Statement


What is the reason for energy bands in solids?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


because of close proximty of atoms
 
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And the question is...?
 
is that answer correct?
 
Not really :-/ More detail would help, I imagine.
 
when 2 orbitals interact you end up with 2 different orbitals one with low energy and one with high? Would that be enough detail?
 
is this correct?
An energy band is a continuous distribution of similar energy levels?

What is the reason for energy bands in solids?
The reason is there is a close proximity of many atoms which is because the energy difference becomes very small. So the energy is bundled together rather than representing indivual energy levels.
 
lotrsimp12345 said:
is this correct?
An energy band is a continuous distribution of similar energy levels?
Something like that... I'd phrase it like so: an energy band is a range of energies in which there are a large number of closely spaced energy levels and which is bounded above and below by "forbidden regions" with no energy levels, such that the forbidden regions are large compared to the interlevel spacing within the energy band.
 

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