2.3.2. Reverse Bias

Try these first

1. 1.

   What happens to the depletion region when a diode is reverse biased?

   Hint

   Think about how the applied voltage affects carrier movement.

2. 2.

   What is leakage current in a reverse-biased diode?

   Hint

   Consider which carriers are still able to move.

3. 3.

   What happens to the depletion region during reverse bias?

   • It widens
   • It shrinks
   • It stays the same

   Hint

   Think about the effects of the voltage applied across the diode.

4. 4.

   True or False: A reverse-biased diode allows significant current to flow.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the nature of current flow in diodes.

5. 5.

   In a specific circuit, a reverse-biased diode experiences a leakage current of 1 µA at -5 V. If the breakdown voltage is -50 V, calculate the expected current flow at breakdown, assuming an exponential increase.

   Hint

   Consider the exponential relationship defined by the diode equation, and research typical values for current increase.

6. 6.

   You are designing a circuit that requires the protection of sensitive electronic components. How would you configure a reverse-biased diode within your protection circuit, and what considerations would you make?

   Hint

   Think about real-world conditions that may cause voltage surges.