Band theory — UPSC Physics Optional CSE 1991 Paper II

Why do the electronic energy level in a solid form bands? Describe in terms of the band theory the difference between a conductor, an intrinsic semi-conductor and an insulator. How does the energy level change when some impurities are introduced in a semiconductor? Explain how by doping you have both n-type and p-type semiconductors starting with pure Germanium. The band gap in cases of Germanium is about 0.8\text{ eV} at Ok. Neglecting the variation of band gap with temperature, make a rough estimate of the temperature at which the resistance of a pure Germanium sample will be reduced to 1/e times its value at 300k.