Question about QM description of metallic conduction

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    Conduction Qm
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the quantum mechanical description of metallic conduction, exploring how classical models may oversimplify the behavior of conduction electrons and the role of holes in electrical conduction. The scope includes theoretical aspects of quantum mechanics as they apply to the properties of electric current in metals.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that classical electromagnetic descriptions of conduction electrons are oversimplified and that a proper understanding requires quantum mechanics.
  • Another participant questions if there was a specific question posed in the initial post.
  • A request is made for clarification on what the quantum mechanical description of metallic conduction entails.
  • A link to a Wikipedia page is provided, suggesting it may contain relevant information.
  • Another participant critiques the Wikipedia page, stating it does not provide a description of the quantum mechanical aspects of metallic conduction.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the quantum mechanical description of metallic conduction, and there is a disagreement regarding the adequacy of the provided Wikipedia resource.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights a potential gap in accessible resources for understanding the quantum mechanical aspects of metallic conduction, as well as differing interpretations of classical versus quantum descriptions.

samgrace
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I have read in a classical EM book:

" The picture of conduction electrons moving freely in conductors is an oversimplification, although it gives a good qualitative description of many of the properties of electric current.

In some materials the current is due to the motion of carriers with a charge equal in size to that on the electron but opposite sign. These carriers are called holes and can be regarded as gaps or holes in the conductor which otherwise has a full complement of electrons, to account for the neutrality that arises from each electron's pair nuclei.

The proper description of metallic conduction requires the use of quantum mechanics. "
 
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What is the quantum mechanical description of metallic conduction?
 
See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_and_quantum_conductivity
 
There is actually no description on quantum mechanical description of metallic conduction at this wiki webpage.
 

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