Questions: The forward biased knee voltage in a semiconductor diode is approximately equal to the a. bias supply voltage b. breakdown voltage c. output voltage d. barrier potential

The forward biased knee voltage in a semiconductor diode is approximately equal to the
a. bias supply voltage
b. breakdown voltage
c. output voltage
d. barrier potential

Transcript text: The forward biased knee voltage in a semiconductor diode is approximately equal to the a. bias supply voltage b. breakdown voltage c. output voltage d. barrier potential

Solution

Solution Steps

Step 1: Understand the Concept of Knee Voltage

In a semiconductor diode, the knee voltage (also known as the cut-in voltage or threshold voltage) is the minimum forward voltage at which the diode starts to conduct significantly. This voltage is primarily determined by the barrier potential of the diode, which is the potential difference across the depletion region of the diode when it is in equilibrium (i.e., no external voltage applied).

Step 2: Analyze the Options

a. Bias supply voltage: This is the external voltage applied to the diode, not the intrinsic property of the diode itself.
b. Breakdown voltage: This is the reverse voltage at which the diode begins to conduct in reverse, leading to breakdown. It is not related to the forward conduction.
c. Output voltage: This is the voltage across the diode when it is conducting, which can vary depending on the circuit.
d. Barrier potential: This is the intrinsic potential difference across the diode's junction, which determines the knee voltage.

Step 3: Determine the Correct Answer

The knee voltage is approximately equal to the barrier potential of the diode, as it is the intrinsic property that must be overcome for significant forward conduction to occur.