In a conductor, which band is typically partially filled?

In a conductor, the conduction band is typically partially filled. This characteristic is crucial because it allows electrons to move freely through the material when an electric field is applied, resulting in electrical conductivity. In conductors, such as metals, the valence band, which contains the electrons that are involved in bonding, overlaps with the conduction band or is very close to it. This overlap enables electrons to flow easily into the conduction band under normal circumstances, providing the material with its conductive properties.

In contrast, the other bands mentioned, such as the valence band, typically contain electrons that form bonds and are completely filled in conductors. The p-type and n-type bands refer to specific types of doping in semiconductors rather than properties of conductors themselves. Thus, the conduction band being partially filled is what defines conductivity in metallic materials, making it the correct choice in this context.