28 Questions
What is the function of a signal diode?
Used in signal circuits
What is the standard symbol for a semiconductor diode showing the direction of whole current?
Arrow and bar
What does the positive mark at the cathode side of a diode indicate?
This is the terminal for positive in the direction of conventional current flow
What is the process of converting alternating current into direct current called?
Rectification
In which direction is the conduction assumed to be, for those accustomed to electron flow?
Against the arrow
What are small silicon diodes commonly used as?
Low-current rectifiers
What is one of the most common uses for semiconductor diodes?
Rectifiers in power supplies
What is one of the most important characteristics of a Zener diode?
Temperature coefficient
Why is silicon used in almost all solid-state devices compared to germanium?
Can operate at higher temperature
What type of diode is used as a voltage regulator?
Zener diode
Why is a heat sink used with diodes?
To reduce the rise in junction temperature
What is the most common use of a regulator circuit?
Minimize output variations
What is used to check a solid-state diode?
Ohmmeter test leads
What is the forward resistance reading of a good diode?
Low but not zero
What type of diode has a much higher current rating when equipped with heat?
Rectifier diode
What characteristic do large silicon diodes have compared to selenium diodes?
Higher forward-to-reverse resistance ratio and much smaller size for the same voltage and current characteristics.
Why does a transistor amplify current?
Because the collector current is approximately equal to the emitter current
What type of signal is converted to an electrical signal for amplification?
An audio signal
What type of waveform is monitored in an electronic test instrument like an oscilloscope?
Sine wave
In what state is a transistor alternately operated when used as an electronic switch?
Cut-off and saturation state
What does a very low reading with both polarities indicate when testing the PN and NP junctions of a transistor?
A shorted junction
What characteristic of large silicon diodes distinguishes them from selenium diodes?
Higher current rating when equipped with heat
What are the two principal semiconductor materials used in transistors?
Silicon and germanium
What does NPN stand for in the context of transistors?
Negative, positive, negative
What is the function of the base in a transistor?
Controls the flow of electrons
Why is silicon generally used for NPN bipolar junction transistors?
Lower internal voltage drop
What does an NPN transistor simply consist of in terms of semiconductor materials?
"N-type" impurities between two layers of germanium with "P-type" semiconductor materials
In medium power-type transistors, how is the collector connected internally?
To the mounting tab
Test your knowledge about the classifications and principles of diodes with this quiz. Learn about signal diodes, rectifier diodes, regulator diodes, and the basic principles of solid-state diodes.
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