Current Direction vs. Potential Difference

AI Thread Summary
Current is typically understood to flow from higher to lower potential difference, aligning with the concept that it moves towards decreasing potential. However, in junction diodes, the behavior of current is influenced by the diode's characteristics, where it can flow easily in the direction of positive potential difference and face resistance in the reverse direction. This raises questions about the conventional understanding of current direction in relation to potential difference. The discussion highlights the need to reconcile textbook definitions with practical observations in semiconductor devices. Understanding these nuances is crucial for grasping the behavior of current in various electrical components.
makino.sh
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
Very simple question, but is it wrong to believe that current always points in the direction of decreasing potential difference?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Why do you think it might be wrong?
 
From the textbook we use, it reads how in junction diodes resistance is low for currents in the direction of positive potential difference, and high for currents in the reverse, negative potential difference direction. Now I'm trying to figure out how a current can be pointed in the direction of positive potential difference.
 

Similar threads

I Is electromotive force always equal to potential difference?
Replies
9
Views
1K
I How is Potential Difference Created across a Resistor?
Replies
21
Views
4K
Question about potential and current in potentiometer circuit
Replies
11
Views
3K
I How a Battery creates a Potential difference in an electrical current
Replies
14
Views
5K
A Relationship between magnetic potential and current density in Maxwell
Replies
2
Views
2K
I Electric potential and potential difference
Replies
7
Views
2K
I Potential difference between a battery's terminal and Earth ground
2
Replies
58
Views
4K
B Some Questions about Electric Current/Capacitors to help my understanding
Replies
7
Views
2K
Electric potential difference at the ends of a resistor
Replies
4
Views
2K
Understanding Ohm's Law: Electric Current & Potential Difference
Replies
1
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top