Conduction Band
The range of electron energy bands higher than the valence band where electrons are delocalized and free to move throughout the crystal lattice to carry electric current.
Governing formula
E ≥ E_c (Populated by free charge carriers)
SI unit
eV (Energy Levels)
In depth
In metals, the conduction band is partially filled by default. In semiconductors and insulators, it is empty at 0 K but becomes populated by electrons thermally excited across E_g or contributed by donor impurities.
Examples in the real world
The gas of free conduction electrons allowing copper wire to conduct electricity with low resistance.