In a p-n junction, what happens when the junction is forward biased? (2019)
Practice Questions
Q1
In a p-n junction, what happens when the junction is forward biased? (2019)
Depletion region widens
Depletion region narrows
No current flows
Reverse current increases
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In a p-n junction, what happens when the junction is forward biased? (2019)
Step 1: Understand what a p-n junction is. It is a boundary between p-type and n-type semiconductor materials.
Step 2: Identify what forward biasing means. It means connecting the positive side of a power source to the p-type material and the negative side to the n-type material.
Step 3: When the p-n junction is forward biased, the electric field created by the power source pushes holes (positive charge carriers) from the p-side towards the junction.
Step 4: At the same time, electrons (negative charge carriers) from the n-side are pushed towards the junction.
Step 5: As holes and electrons move towards each other, they begin to recombine at the junction.
Step 6: This recombination reduces the width of the depletion region, which is the area around the junction that is normally free of charge carriers.
Step 7: With the depletion region narrowed, it becomes easier for current to flow through the junction.
Step 8: As a result, a significant amount of current can now flow through the p-n junction.
