Question

The energy band gap is maximum in

• A. Metals
• B. superconductors
• C. Insulators
• D. Semiconductors

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Insulators

Energy Band Gap: It is the energy difference between the energy of the conduction band and the valence band.

The explanation for the correct answer:

Option C: Insulators

1. There are no electrons present in the conduction band for insulators.
2. Due to this, there will be a large gap between the conduction and valence bands.
3. It is very difficult to send electrons from the valence band to the conduction band.
4. Hence, the energy band gap is very high.

The explanation for incorrect answer(s):

Option A: Metals

1. The conduction band and valence band overlap for metals.
2. Due to this, electrons can easily cross the valence band into the conduction band.
3. Hence, the energy band gap is very less.

Option B: Superconductors:

1. The energy band gap of superconductors is less than insulators, semiconductors, and metals.
2. Hence, the electrons are readily available for conduction in superconductors.

Option D: Semiconductors:

1. The energy band of semiconductors is moderate and lies between metals and insulators.
2. The electrons present in the conduction band are less than the electrons present in metals and greater than the electrons present in insulators.
3. Hence, the energy gap present in semiconductors are less than in insulators and greater than in metals.

Hence, by comparing energy gaps in all, insulators have a maximum energy band gap.

Thus, option C is correct.