The graph given below represents I - V characteristics of zener diode. The part of the characteristics curve that is most relevant for its operation as a voltage regulator is

Step-by-step solution

The current-voltage characteristics show distinct operational regions for the Zener diode. In forward bias, beyond the knee voltage (segment 'ab'), current increases exponentially with applied voltage, rendering this region unsuitable for voltage regulation. The near-origin region ('bc') represents transition behavior and is also irrelevant for regulation. Under reverse bias, before breakdown occurs (segment 'cd'), only minimal leakage current flows while voltage increases negatively. This pre-breakdown region does