Valence Band
The highest range of electron energy bands in a solid that is fully occupied by bound valence electrons at absolute zero temperature.
Governing formula
Occupied by valence electrons at T = 0 K
SI unit
eV (Energy Levels)
In depth
Electrons in the valence band participate in atomic chemical bonding. Because the band is completely filled at 0 K, no net electric current can flow within it unless thermal or optical energy excites electrons across the band gap into the conduction band, leaving mobile positively charged holes.
Examples in the real world
Covalent bonding electron pairs occupying the filled valence band of pure silicon at low temperatures.