Explain how a p-n junction functions as a rectifier, Physics

Assignment Help:

Explain physically how a p-n junction functions as a rectifier.

Ans: When a P-N junction diode is forward-biased and applied voltage is increased from zero, hardly any current flows through the device in beginning. It is so as external voltage is being opposed by the internal barrier voltage VB whose value is 0.7 V

For Silicon and 0.3 V for Ge. As soon as VB is neutralized, current through diode increases rapidly with increasing applied battery voltage. So, in forward bias condition, P-N  junction  diode  behaves  just like  a  closed  switch.  When  a  P-N  junction  diode  is reverse  biased,  majority  carriers  are  blocked  and  only  a  small  current  (because of minority carriers)  flows  through  the  diode.   It's  of  the  order  of  Nano amperes  (nA)  for  Si  and microamperes (µA) for Ge. For all practical purposes, this current is almost negligible. So, in Reverse bias condition, P-N junction diode behaves like an open switch. So, above discussion shows that the P-N junction functions as a rectifier.

 


Related Discussions:- Explain how a p-n junction functions as a rectifier

Match the name of the phenomenon, Match the name of the phenomenon with the...

Match the name of the phenomenon with the explanation of the phenomenon. Answer: There isn't such thing as orthomagnetism. The prefixes can assist you out with the answ

The magnetic circuit, THE MAGNETIC CIRCUIT In an electric circuit, a cu...

THE MAGNETIC CIRCUIT In an electric circuit, a current is established due to the existence of an electromotive force. In the same way, in a magnetic circuit, a flux is establis

Define relation between permeability and susceptibility, Total magnetic flu...

Total magnetic flux density B in a material is the amount of magnetic flux density in vacuum formed by magnetizing force and magnetic flux density because of magnetization of mater

Why we feel sky blue in color, Why we feel sky blue in color?  The blu...

Why we feel sky blue in color?  The blue color of the sky is because of Rayleigh scattering. As light moves by the atmosphere, most of the longer wavelengths pass straight thr

V-i characteristics of constant current source, V-I  Characteristics  ...

V-I  Characteristics  of  Constant  Current  Source A  source  which  has  high  internal resistance  (or  impedance)  as  compared  to  load  resistance  (or  impedance)  i

Find angular velocitie and total acceleration vecto, Krusty the Clown and S...

Krusty the Clown and Sideshow Bob have covered themselves in velcro, and shot themselves out of a large cannon so that they stick to a huge rotating velcro wheel (don't try this at

Heavy water is often used as a moderator in thermal nuclear, 'Heavy water i...

'Heavy water is often used as a moderator in thermal nuclear reactors.' Give reason.

A quarter of wavelength is equal to how many phase degrees, A quarter of a ...

A quarter of a wavelength is equal to how many degrees of phase? A quarter of wavelength is equaivalent to 90 degrees of phase.

Determine the highest order spectrum, Determine the highest order spectrum ...

Determine the highest order spectrum which can be seen with monochromatic light of 589.3 nm wavelength by means of a diffraction grating having 15000 lines/inch.

Write Your Message!

Captcha
Free Assignment Quote

Assured A++ Grade

Get guaranteed satisfaction & time on delivery in every assignment order you paid with us! We ensure premium quality solution document along with free turntin report!

All rights reserved! Copyrights ©2019-2020 ExpertsMind IT Educational Pvt Ltd