NEET2026PhysicsChapterActual
Which of the following statements is correct regarding a p-n junction diode under reverse bias condition?
Options
- AThe width of the depletion region decreases.
- BThe barrier potential across the junction increases.
- CThe majority charge carriers are pushed towards the junction.
- DThe diode offers a very low resistance to the flow of current.
Correct answer
B. The barrier potential across the junction increases.
Step-by-step solution
In a p-n junction diode under reverse bias, the positive terminal of the external voltage source is connected to the n-region and the negative terminal to the p-region. This applied voltage pulls the majority charge carriers (electrons in the n-region and holes in the p-region) away from the junction. As a result, the width of the depletion region increases. The applied reverse voltage acts in the same direction as the built-in potential, which means the effective barrier potential across the junction increases. Be