Question

The electrons of the outermost orbit of an atom which have left their atoms and can freely move inside a solid, are called

• A. bound electrons
• B. non static electrons
• C. rogue electrons
• D. free electrons

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

free electrons

Electrical conductivity involves a flow or current of free electrons through a solid body. Some materials, such as metals, are good conductors of electricity. These possess free or valence electrons that are present in the outermost orbit of the atom and do not remain permanently associated with the atoms of a solid but instead form an electron cloud or gas around the peripheries of the atoms and are free to move through the solid at a rapid rate.

In other materials, such as plastics, the valence electrons are far more restricted in their movements and do not form a free-electron cloud. Such materials act as insulators against the flow of electricity.

Hence option D is correct.