valence band

noun

: the range of permissible energy values that are the highest energies an electron can have and still be associated with a particular atom of a solid material compare conduction band

Examples of valence band in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web When energy is applied, electrons will move from the valence band (the ground state) to the conduction band (the excited state) and can be harnessed as electrical energy. Tracy H. Schloemer, IEEE Spectrum, 19 Sep. 2023 An electron in the valence band participates in the bonding of atoms within the crystal lattice, whereas in the conduction band electrons are free to move around in the lattice and conduct electricity. IEEE Spectrum, 26 Mar. 2023 The bandgap of a semiconductor is defined as the energy, in electron volts, needed for an electron in the semiconductor lattice to jump from the valence band to the conduction band. IEEE Spectrum, 26 Mar. 2023 In chemistry, bandgap is the distance between the conduction band and the valence band of the material’s atoms. Caroline Delbert, Popular Mechanics, 11 May 2022 The ability of a solid material to conduct electricity depends on the ability to flow electrons from the valence band to the conduction band. Willy Shih, Forbes, 4 Oct. 2021 In silicon, electrons have to emit a photon and a sound vibration (a phonon) at the same time to reach the valence band. Chris Lee, Ars Technica, 22 July 2019 All the electrons are sitting at low energy, trapped in the valence band. Chris Lee, Ars Technica, 1 June 2019 At this point, the electron will emit a photon and return to the valence band. Chris Lee, Ars Technica, 1 June 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'valence band.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1953, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of valence band was in 1953

Dictionary Entries Near valence band

Cite this Entry

“Valence band.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/valence%20band. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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