Question:

In a Zener diode :

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Zener diode:
• operates in reverse breakdown region,
• has sharp low-voltage breakdown,
• is widely used for voltage regulation.
Updated On: May 22, 2026
  • Forward voltage rating is high
  • Sharp breakdown occurs at low reverse voltage
  • Negative resistance characteristics exists
  • Sharp breakdown never occurs
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: A Zener diode is a specially designed heavily doped PN junction diode intended to operate in reverse breakdown region. Important properties:
• sharp reverse breakdown,
• low breakdown voltage,
• nearly constant voltage after breakdown.

Step 1:
Understanding Zener diode operation. When reverse voltage reaches the Zener breakdown voltage: \[ V_Z \] the diode suddenly conducts heavily while maintaining almost constant voltage.

Step 2:
Analyzing option (1). Statement: \[ \text{Forward voltage rating is high} \] This is incorrect. Zener diode forward characteristics are similar to ordinary silicon diodes: \[ V_F \approx 0.7V \] Hence this option is false.

Step 3:
Analyzing option (2). Statement: \[ \text{Sharp breakdown occurs at low reverse voltage} \] This is correct. Because of heavy doping:
• depletion region becomes thin,
• breakdown occurs at comparatively low reverse voltage,
• breakdown is sharp and well defined. Hence this option is correct.

Step 4:
Analyzing option (3). Negative resistance characteristic is associated with devices such as tunnel diode, not ordinary Zener diode operation. Hence this option is incorrect.

Step 5:
Analyzing option (4). This statement is opposite to actual Zener behavior. Zener diode is specifically known for sharp breakdown. Hence this option is incorrect.

Step 6:
Selecting the correct answer. Therefore the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{(2)} \]
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