Understanding Diode Barrier Potential and Its Role in PN Junction Diodes

In summary, the barrier potential of a PN junction diode is equivalent to the 'forward voltage' mentioned on datasheets. When a forward bias is applied and the voltage surpasses the barrier potential, the diode will begin to conduct. It is important to note that the conduction of a diode follows a continuous exponential function and is not solely determined by the forward voltage. The flow of current is exponential in relation to the barrier voltage until it is affected by ohmic effects at higher currents.
  • #1
Physicist3
104
0
Hi,

For a PN junction diode, am I correct in thinking that the barrier potential (due to depletion region and hole-electron recombination etc.) is the same as the 'forward voltage' quoted on datasheets? Also, when a forward bias condition is created and the applied voltage is greater than the barrier potential, am I correct in thinking that the diode will then conduct?
 
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  • #2
You've pretty much got it.
 
  • #3
One thing people don't seem to get is that the conduction of a diode is a continuous exponential function.

From the wikipedia article:
"The diode is commonly said to have a forward "threshold" voltage, which it conducts above and is cutoff below. However, this is only an approximation as the forward characteristic is according to the Shockley equation absolutely smooth".

The flow is exponential relative to the barrier voltage until it is dominated by ohmic effects at higher currents.
 

1. What is a diode barrier potential?

A diode barrier potential is the potential energy difference between the p-type and n-type regions of a semiconductor diode. It is created by the doping process, which introduces impurities into the semiconductor material.

2. How does the diode barrier potential affect the flow of current?

The diode barrier potential creates a barrier that prevents the flow of current in one direction. When a voltage is applied in the forward direction, the barrier potential is lowered and current can flow through the diode. In the reverse direction, the barrier potential increases and current flow is greatly reduced.

3. What factors affect the magnitude of the diode barrier potential?

The magnitude of the diode barrier potential is affected by the type and concentration of dopants used in the p-type and n-type regions, as well as the temperature of the diode. Higher dopant concentrations and higher temperatures result in a lower barrier potential.

4. How does the diode barrier potential vary with different types of diodes?

The diode barrier potential can vary depending on the type of diode. For example, Schottky diodes have a lower barrier potential compared to p-n junction diodes. This is because Schottky diodes have a metal-semiconductor interface, which creates a smaller barrier potential compared to the p-n junction in traditional diodes.

5. What is the significance of the diode barrier potential in electronic circuits?

The diode barrier potential plays a crucial role in electronic circuits. It allows diodes to act as one-way valves, only allowing current to flow in one direction. This is essential for rectifying AC signals in power supplies and for creating barriers in digital circuits, allowing for the creation of logic gates and other essential components.

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