Final answer:
The valence band is typically filled with electrons, and when they absorb energy, they can move to the conduction band, enabling conduction of electricity, especially in conductors and semiconductors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best description of the valence band and conduction band is that the valence band is filled with electrons, and electrons in the valence band can move to the conduction band by absorbing energy. The correct answer to the question is D) Electrons in the valence band can move to the conduction band by absorbing energy. In insulators, the valence band is completely filled, making it difficult for electrons to move to the conduction band due to a large band gap. In conductors, the band gap is small, allowing electrons to easily be excited into the conduction band, making them good conductors of electricity. Semiconductors work similarly, but require a moderate amount of energy to excite electrons due to a smaller band gap compared to insulators.