Physics - Semiconductors Question with Solution | TestHub
Which of the following diode operates on the principle of junction breakdown?
Options:
Answer:
Solution:
A Zener diode is a heavily doped p-n junction diode specifically designed to operate in the reverse breakdown region.
When the reverse bias voltage reaches the Zener breakdown voltage, the junction breaks down and a large current flows through the diode while the voltage across it remains almost constant. This property is utilized in voltage regulation.
Photodiodes operate in reverse bias but rely on the generation of electron-hole pairs by incident light. Light-emitting diodes operate in forward bias and emit light due to the recombination of charge carriers. Solar cells operate without any external bias to convert light energy into electrical energy.
Therefore, the Zener diode is the only one among the given options that operates on the principle of junction breakdown.
Answer: Zener diode
