In a PN junction diode, what happens when it is forward biased? (2019)
Practice Questions
Q1
In a PN junction diode, what happens when it is forward biased? (2019)
Depletion region widens
Depletion region narrows
No current flows
Reverse current increases
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In a PN junction diode, what happens when it is forward biased? (2019)
Step 1: Understand what a PN junction diode is. It is made of two types of semiconductor materials: P-type (positive) and N-type (negative).
Step 2: Identify what forward biasing means. Forward biasing occurs when the positive side of the power supply is connected to the P-type material and the negative side is connected to the N-type material.
Step 3: Recognize that in forward bias, the electric field created by the power supply reduces the barrier that prevents current flow.
Step 4: Observe that as the barrier is reduced, the depletion region (the area where no charge carriers exist) becomes narrower.
Step 5: Conclude that with the depletion region narrowed, charge carriers (electrons and holes) can move across the junction, allowing current to flow through the diode.
