Question:

The class of materials having the largest band gap in the following is

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Band gap order is: \[ \text{Metals} < \text{Semi-metals} < \text{Semiconductors} < \text{Insulators}. \] Larger band gap means lower electrical conductivity.
Updated On: Jun 18, 2026
  • Metals
  • Semi-metals
  • Semiconductors
  • Insulators
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand the concept of band gap.
The band gap is the energy difference between the valence band and the conduction band of a solid.
It determines how easily electrons can move from the valence band to the conduction band and participate in electrical conduction.

Step 2: Compare the band gaps of different materials.

For metals, \[ E_g \approx 0 \] The valence and conduction bands overlap, so electrons move freely.
For semi-metals, \[ E_g \approx 0 \] or there is a very small overlap between bands.
For semiconductors, \[ E_g \approx 0.1 \text{ to } 3\,\text{eV} \] Examples include silicon and germanium.
For insulators, \[ E_g > 3\,\text{eV} \] and often ranges from \(5\) to \(10\,\text{eV}\) or even larger.
Therefore, insulators possess the largest band gap among the given materials.

Step 3: Final conclusion.

Hence, the class of materials having the largest band gap is \[ \boxed{\text{Insulators}} \] and the correct option is \[ \boxed{(4)}. \]
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