The potential barrier existing across an unbiased p - n junction is 0.2 volt . What minimum kinetic energy must a hole have to diffuse from the p -side to the n -side if the junction is reverse-biased at 0.1 volt ?

Step-by-step solution

The potential barrier of the unbiased p - n junction is V₀ = 0.2 V . When the junction is reverse-biased with a voltage V_R = 0.1 V , the effective potential barrier increases. The new potential barrier is given by V = V₀ + V_R = 0.2 V + 0.1 V = 0.3 V . To diffuse from the p -side to the n -side, a hole (with charge +e ) must overcome this potential barrier. The minimum kinetic energy required is K = eV = e 0.3 V = 0.3 eV .