Is is possible to find unoccupied states below fermi energy?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the possibility of finding unoccupied states below the Fermi energy level, particularly in the context of metals and semiconductors. Participants explore theoretical implications and definitions related to occupied and unoccupied states at absolute zero temperature and in different materials.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that at T=0K in a metal, the Fermi energy is defined as the highest occupied energy state, implying that all states below it are occupied.
  • Another participant disagrees, stating that it is possible to have unoccupied states below the Fermi energy in semiconductors, where the Fermi level lies between the conduction and valence bands, allowing for holes (unoccupied states) in the valence band.
  • A third participant simply states that it is not possible to find unoccupied states below the Fermi energy.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express conflicting views on the existence of unoccupied states below the Fermi energy, with no consensus reached on the matter.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on material type (metals vs. semiconductors) and the implications of temperature on the occupancy of states, but does not resolve the definitions or conditions under which these claims hold.

arierreF
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Is is possible to find unoccupied states below fermi energy??

Or all states below fermi energy are always occupied?
 
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arierreF said:
Is is possible to find unoccupied states below fermi energy??

Or all states below fermi energy are always occupied?

At T=0K, in a metal, it is DEFINED as the highest occupied energy state.

So what you are asking is whether we can negotiate our definition.

Zz.
 
no, it is not possible
 
arierreF said:
Is is possible to find unoccupied states below fermi energy??

Or all states below fermi energy are always occupied?

Yes, It is possible. In a semiconductor the Fermi level is usually between conduction and valence band and we can have hole (unoccupied state) in valence band.
 

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