When we apply reverse bias to a junction diode, it: (a)...

When we apply reverse bias to a junction diode, it:
(a) lowers the potential barrier
(b) raises the potential barrier
(c) greatly increases the minority carrier current
(d) greatly increases the majority carrier current

Labs

Want to see this concept in action?

NEW

Explore this concept interactively to see how it behaves as you change inputs.

View Labs

Key Concepts

Reverse Bias

Reverse bias refers to the condition where a voltage is applied to a semiconductor junction in a direction that increases the built?in potential, effectively widening the depletion region. This increases the barrier that majority carriers must overcome to contribute to current flow, thereby significantly limiting the conduction through the diode under reverse bias conditions.

Potential Barrier Modification

In a semiconductor junction, a depletion region forms where mobile charge carriers are absent, creating an inherent potential barrier. When reverse bias is applied, this barrier is raised because the external voltage adds to the built?in potential, making it even more difficult for carriers to cross the junction, which in turn reduces the majority carrier conduction.

Minority Carrier Dynamics

Under reverse bias, although the majority carriers are largely blocked by the increased potential barrier, a very small current persists due to the drift of minority carriers. This minority carrier current is typically very low compared to the current observed under forward bias conditions, highlighting the diode's behavior in reverse bias mode.

Transcript

Please give Ace some feedback