Step 1: Circuit analysis
Supply voltage \(V = 40 V\), Zener voltage \(V_Z = 20 V\).
Voltage across \(2 k\Omega\) resistor:
\[
V_R = V - V_Z = 40 - 20 = 20 V
\]
Step 2: Calculate current through resistor
\[
I = \frac{V_R}{R} = \frac{20}{2000} = 0.01 A = 10 mA
\]
Step 3: Current division
Current divides through \(5 k\Omega\) resistor and Zener diode.
Current through \(5 k\Omega\):
\[
I_{5k} = \frac{V_Z}{5,000} = \frac{20}{5000} = 0.004 A = 4 mA
\]
Step 4: Current through Zener diode
\[
I_Z = I - I_{5k} = 10 mA - 4 mA = 6 mA
\]
Step 5: Conclusion
The current through Zener diode is 6 mA.