Question

Show the shape of the characteristics of a diode.

Hint:

In the V-I characteristics of a diode, current remains low in reverse bias until breakdown, and increases exponentially in forward bias after the threshold voltage.

Answer 1

V-I Characteristics of a Diode

The V-I characteristics of a diode can be divided into two distinct regions:

1. Forward Bias Region

In the forward bias region, the p-side of the diode is connected to the positive terminal of the battery, and the n-side is connected to the negative terminal. In this region, the current increases exponentially as the voltage increases. Initially, there is very little current, but once the threshold voltage (typically around 0.7 V for silicon diodes) is reached, the current rises sharply.

2. Reverse Bias Region

In the reverse bias region, the current remains very small (almost zero) until the reverse breakdown voltage is reached. After that, the current increases drastically in the reverse direction. This reverse breakdown occurs when the voltage exceeds a critical value, causing the diode to conduct in reverse.