Explain the concept of Zener breakdown & avalanche breakdown. Also describe V-I characteristics of Zener diode. Explain formation of potential barrier in p-n junction diode. Also e... Explain the concept of Zener breakdown & avalanche breakdown. Also describe V-I characteristics of Zener diode. Explain formation of potential barrier in p-n junction diode. Also explain the effect of forward & reverse bias on depletion region.
Understand the Problem
The question is from an examination paper, focusing on concepts in electronics and circuit theory. It asks for explanations of specific electronic components and principles, including Zener breakdown, p-n junctions, BJTs, and op-amps, among others.
Answer
Zener breakdown is due to high electric fields, while avalanche is due to electron collisions. Zener diodes maintain constant voltage in reverse bias. Potential barrier forms from carrier diffusion; forward bias decreases, reverse increases depletion region.
Zener breakdown occurs at a high electric field, allowing current to flow in reverse in a Zener diode, and is used to maintain a constant voltage. Avalanche breakdown happens when free electrons collide with atoms, leading to a chain reaction of electron generation. The V-I characteristics of a Zener diode depict a sharp rise in current once the breakdown voltage is reached, maintaining a constant output voltage. In a p-n junction diode, the potential barrier forms due to the diffusion of charge carriers, creating a depletion region. Forward bias reduces the potential barrier, allowing current to flow, while reverse bias increases it, preventing current flow.
Answer for screen readers
Zener breakdown occurs at a high electric field, allowing current to flow in reverse in a Zener diode, and is used to maintain a constant voltage. Avalanche breakdown happens when free electrons collide with atoms, leading to a chain reaction of electron generation. The V-I characteristics of a Zener diode depict a sharp rise in current once the breakdown voltage is reached, maintaining a constant output voltage. In a p-n junction diode, the potential barrier forms due to the diffusion of charge carriers, creating a depletion region. Forward bias reduces the potential barrier, allowing current to flow, while reverse bias increases it, preventing current flow.
More Information
Zener diodes are used extensively in voltage regulation applications due to their ability to maintain a constant output voltage despite variations in load current or input voltage.
Tips
Common mistakes include confusing the causes of Zener and avalanche breakdown—Zener is due to high electric fields, and avalanche is due to electron impact ionization.
Sources
- Difference Between Zener Breakdown and Avalanche Breakdown - byjus.com
- Zener Diode - Definition, Working, Circuit Symbol, V-I Characteristics - byjus.com
- PN Junction Diode and Diode Characteristics - Electronics Tutorials - electronics-tutorials.ws
