Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 2]PhysicsSemiconductors and Semiconductor Devices
In a p - n junction, the diffusion current is directed
Options
- Afrom the n -side towards the p -side if forward-biased, and in the reverse direction if reverse-biased
- Bfrom the p -side towards the n -side if forward-biased, and in the reverse direction if reverse-biased
- Cfrom the p -side towards the n -side
- Dfrom the n -side towards the p -side
Correct answer
C. from the p -side towards the n -side
Step-by-step solution
In a p - n junction, the concentration of holes is higher in the p -region and the concentration of electrons is higher in the n -region. Due to this concentration gradient, holes diffuse from the p -side to the n -side, and electrons diffuse from the n -side to the p -side. The conventional current due to the flow of holes is in the direction of their motion (from p to n ), and the current due to the flow of electrons is opposite to their motion (also from p to n ). Thus, the diffusion current is always directed f