Q. A zener diode has a contact potential of 1 V in the absence of biasing. It undergoes Zener breakdown for an electric field of 10$^{6}$ V-$m^{- 1}$ at the depletion region of $p$-$n$ junction. If the width of the depletion region is 2.5 $\mu$m, what should be the reverse biased potential for the Zener breakdown to occur?
A) 3.5 V
B) 2.5 V
C) 1.5 V
D) 0.5 V
Explanation
(b) Reverse biased potential for the zener breakdown
$V_{r} = Ed = 10^{6} \times 2.5 \times 10^{- 6} = 2.5$ volt
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.