Fermi Energy
The highest occupied kinetic energy state of non-interacting fermions in a quantum system at absolute zero temperature (0 K).
Governing formula
E_F = (ℏ² / (2 m)) (3 π² n)^(2/3)
SI unit
eV or Joules
In depth
Because fermions obey the Pauli Exclusion Principle, no two electrons can occupy the same quantum state. At 0 K, electrons fill available energy states up to the Fermi energy E_F, creating a 'Fermi sea'.
Examples in the real world
Determining conduction electron energy distributions and electrical conductivity in solid metals like copper and aluminum.