Q. Zener breakdown in a semi-conductor diode occurs when
A) Forward current exceeds certain value
B) Reverse bias exceeds certain value
C) Forward bias exceeds certain value
D) Potential barrier is reduced to zero
Explanation
(b) When reverse bias is increased, the electric field at the junction also increases. At some stage the electric field breaks the covalent bond, thus the large number of charge carriers are generated. This is called Zener breakdown
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.