P N Junction Diode
P N Junction Diode
Forward bias characteristics: - When p-side of a P N junction is connected to the positive terminal of battery
and n-side is connected to the negative terminal of battery, then the junction is said to be forward
bias. Under the influence of increasing voltage, the current first increases slowly and after a particular
potential known as knee voltage, the proportionate increase in current will be larger.
Reverse bias characteristics: - When p-side of a P N junction is connected to the negative terminal of battery
and n-side is connected to the positive terminal of battery, then the junction is said to be reverse bias.
Under the influence of increasing voltage, there is a small leakage current and for a large reverse
potential known as breakdown voltage there is a sudden spurt in current.
The V-I characteristic curve of a P.N junction diode is a plot between voltage on x-axis and current
on Y-axis.
Diagram:
PROCEDURE:
1. The connections were made as per the circuit diagram drawn in the forward bias.
2. The potentiometer was initially set to zero and in this position both the volt meter and
mili ammeter reads zero.
3. The knob of the potentiometer was gradually changed and corresponding readings of the
volt meter and mili ammeter were noted and tabulated.
4. The connections were made as per the circuit diagram of the reverse bias and the same
procedure as the forward bias was repeated.
5. From the readings of the potential and current, V ~ I characteristic curve was drawn.
TABULATION:
PRECAUTION:
INFERENCE: Within the limits of experimental error, the V ~ I characteristics of the given P.N junction
diode were studied and plotted.