13.1.3 Understanding diodes

• What are semiconductors defined as in terms of conductivity?

  Between conductors and insulators
• What is a diode formed by combining?

  p-type and n-type semiconductors
• A diode allows current to flow equally in both directions.

  False
• The forward voltage drop for silicon diodes is typically 0.6-0.7 V.

  True
• The conductivity of semiconductors is moderate and can be controlled by doping
• What is a diode formed by?

  P-type and n-type semiconductors
• Match the semiconductor type with its doping element:

  P-type ↔️ Boron

  N-type ↔️ Phosphorus
• In reverse bias, the depletion region restricts current flow.


  True
• In forward bias, the current increases steeply after a forward voltage drop of approximately 0.6-0.7 V
• Semiconductors possess a unique property—their conductivity can be controlled by temperature, light, or the addition of impurities through doping
• Match the semiconductor type with its majority charge carriers:

  P-Type ↔️ Holes

  N-Type ↔️ Electrons
• Steps involved in forward bias operation of a diode:

  1️⃣ Depletion region narrows

  2️⃣ Electrons move from n-type to p-type

  3️⃣ Holes move from p-type to n-type
• In reverse bias, the current flow is restricted until the reverse breakdown voltage is reached.
• The conductivity of semiconductors increases with temperature.

  True
• In a p-type semiconductor, the majority charge carriers are holes
• What is the depletion region at the p-n junction devoid of?

  Free charge carriers
• Arrange the following diode bias conditions in order of increasing current flow:

  1️⃣ Reverse Bias

  2️⃣ Forward Bias
• In reverse bias, a diode allows a significant reverse current until the breakdown voltage.

  False
• The conductivity of semiconductors decreases with increasing temperature.

  False
• At the p-n junction, the diffusion of holes and electrons creates a depletion region.
• What do the I-V characteristics of a diode describe?

  Current versus voltage relationship
• What are semiconductors and what property makes them unique?

  Intermediate conductivity, doping
• Match the material type with an example:

  Conductor ↔️ Copper

  Semiconductor ↔️ Silicon

  Insulator ↔️ Rubber
• A p-type semiconductor is positively charged overall.


  True
• In forward bias, the depletion region narrows
• What are three common applications of diodes?

  Rectification, voltage regulation, switching
• Match the diode application with its description:

  Rectification ↔️ Converts AC to DC

  Voltage Regulation ↔️ Maintains constant voltage

  Switching ↔️ Controls current flow