Valence electrons in insulators

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    Electrons Insulators
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the behavior of valence electrons in insulators, specifically addressing why these electrons are not free to move. The scope includes theoretical explanations related to solid-state physics and the concept of energy bands.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why valence electrons in insulators are not free to move.
  • Another participant suggests that it requires too much energy for valence electrons to reach the conduction band, implying a barrier to their movement.
  • A different participant notes that while valence electrons do have group velocities, the full occupancy of the band means that the movement of one electron is countered by another, leading to no net movement.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion includes multiple viewpoints regarding the movement of valence electrons in insulators, and no consensus is reached on the explanation.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference energy band theory and the concept of electron movement, but the discussion does not resolve the underlying assumptions or definitions related to these concepts.

Superposed_Cat
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I was wondering why the valence electrons aren't free to move in insulators? Thanks for any help in advance.
 
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Superposed_Cat said:
I was wondering why the valence electrons aren't free to move in insulators? Thanks for any help in advance.
In fact they move with their group velocities but since the band is full, movement of the electron at k would neutralize the movement of another one at -k.
 

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