Semiconductor Diodes

Semiconductor Diodes

Semiconductor diodes are electronic devices that allow the flow of current in one direction only. They are made up of two types of semiconducting materials, namely p-type and n-type semiconductors. When these two materials are brought together, a p-n junction is formed, which is the basis of a semiconductor diode. The p-n junction is created by doping one side of a semiconductor material with impurities that have an excess of electrons, creating an n-type semiconductor. The other side is doped with impurities that have a deficiency of electrons, creating a p-type semiconductor. When these two materials are brought together, electrons from the n-type material diffuse into the p-type material, creating a depletion region. This region is depleted of free electrons and holes, creating a potential barrier that opposes the flow of current in the reverse direction. The operation of a semiconductor diode is based on this potential barrier. When a forward voltage is applied to the diode, the potential barrier is reduced, allowing current to flow. However, when a reverse voltage is applied, the potential barrier is increased, preventing the flow of current. This property makes semiconductor diodes useful in a variety of electronic applications, including rectification, signal detection, and voltage regulation. In addition to their basic function as a one-way current valve, semiconductor diodes can also be used in more complex circuits, such as voltage multipliers, oscillators, and amplifiers. They are widely used in electronic devices such as computers, televisions, and mobile phones.

electronic devices, p-type, n-type, potential barrier, depletion region

— Joseph Moore

CITATION : "Joseph Moore. 'Semiconductor Diodes.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=395648 (Accessed on July 02, 2025)"