In a forward-biased diode, what happens to the barrier potential?
Practice Questions
Q1
In a forward-biased diode, what happens to the barrier potential?
It increases
It decreases
It remains constant
It reverses
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In a forward-biased diode, what happens to the barrier potential?
Step 1: Understand what a diode is. A diode is a component that allows current to flow in one direction.
Step 2: Know what forward bias means. Forward bias occurs when the positive side of a voltage source is connected to the p-type material and the negative side to the n-type material of the diode.
Step 3: Recognize the barrier potential. The barrier potential is the voltage that prevents current from flowing through the diode when it is not forward-biased.
Step 4: Apply forward bias. When you apply forward bias, the voltage from the source pushes against the barrier potential.
Step 5: Observe the effect on the barrier potential. The applied voltage reduces the barrier potential, making it easier for current to flow through the diode.
Step 6: Conclude that in a forward-biased diode, the reduction of the barrier potential allows current to flow.
