Reverse Bias: Diode, Resistor, Voltage & Current

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of diodes and resistors in reverse bias conditions, specifically addressing why the current and voltage across a resistor connected in series with a diode remain zero in this state. The conversation touches on concepts from circuit theory and Ohm's law.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that in reverse bias, the current across the resistor remains zero because conduction only begins at very high voltages.
  • Another participant clarifies that prior to the diode's breakdown voltage, no current flows, which means no voltage can develop across the resistor, referencing Ohm's law.
  • A participant seeks to understand why both the voltage and current across the resistor are zero in reverse bias.
  • Further clarification is provided that the current through the resistor is zero because the total circuit current is zero or very small, leading to zero voltage across the resistor as per Ohm's law.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the principle that in reverse bias, the current and voltage across the resistor are zero due to the lack of current flow. However, there is some confusion regarding the terminology used to describe current and voltage across components.

Contextual Notes

There is an assumption that participants are familiar with basic circuit theory and Ohm's law. The discussion does not address the conditions under which breakdown voltage occurs or the implications of that phenomenon.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals studying electronics, particularly those interested in diode behavior and circuit analysis in reverse bias conditions.

XuFyaN
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In forward bias the supplied voltage is distribute among the resistor and the diode (diode and resistor are connected in series) but in reverse bias the Current across the resistor remain zero because the conduction starts when very high voltage is supplied ...am i right ?
but why the Voltage across resistor and current across resistor remain also zero when resistor and diode are connected in series in Reverse Bias ??
 
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You cannot have current across something. Your wording my have me confused. Ohms law can pretty much explain your question. In reverse bias prior to the diodes breakdown voltage no current is flowing so no voltage can develop across the resistor.
 
i want to know why the voltage across Resistor , current across the resistor is zero in reverse bias ??
 
As ASN said you cannot speak of "current across" anything. Think of it as current through the resistor. The current through the resistor is zero because the total circuit current is zero (or at least VERY small). Since the current through the resistor is zero by Ohms law so is the voltage. Note that current through the diode is also zero.
 
Last edited:
Thanks a lot :)
 

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