Valence band

The valence band is a term used in solid-state physics to describe the energy range where electrons are normally present in a material, particularly in semiconductors and insulators. It represents the outermost electrons that are involved in bonding and electrical properties of atoms. When energy is supplied, like heat or light, some electrons can jump from the valence band to a higher energy level, known as the conduction band, allowing them to conduct electricity. Essentially, the valence band plays a crucial role in determining how a material behaves electrically.