Second degree DE for pn-junction carrier concentration

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of a second-degree differential equation related to the carrier concentration in a pn-junction, specifically focusing on the minority carrier concentration in the n-type region. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and technical explanation regarding the solution of the differential equation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a second-degree differential equation for the excess minority carrier concentration in the n-type part of the pn junction, leading to a characteristic equation with roots of +/- 1/Lh.
  • The same participant proposes a general solution form for the differential equation but expresses uncertainty about arriving at a specific solution that matches a known form.
  • Another participant suggests verifying the characteristic equation and its roots, reiterating the equation presented.
  • A later reply acknowledges a misunderstanding regarding the characteristic equation and suggests that a different form could lead to the desired solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the derivation of the solution, and there are indications of confusion regarding the characteristic equation and its implications for the solution.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the initial conditions and the specific steps needed to derive the known solution. The discussion reflects a dependency on the definitions and interpretations of the characteristic equation.

rire1979
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Upon some calculation I arrive to the expression:

d2DPn(x)/dx2 = DPn(x)/Lh2

Where:

DPn(x) = Pn(x) + Pno - excess minority carriers (holes) concentration in the n-type part of the pn junction.

Now the roots to the characteristic equation are +/- 1/Lh where Lh is the length of the diffusion.

Therefore the solution looks like:

DPn(x) = Ae-1/Lh + Be1/Lh

I know for a fact the solution is DPn(x) = DPn(0)e-x/Lh

The initial conditions would be that:
@ x = 0 we have hole concentration DPn(0)
@ x = Lh we have DPn(Lh) = 0

But I have no idea how to arrive at the solution in bold. I'm missing something and I was thinking you could help.

Thank you.
 
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Try writing down the characteristic equation again and verifying the roots.
 
Lord Crc said:
Try writing down the characteristic equation again and verifying the roots.

r2 - 1/Lh2 = 0

r = +/- 1/Lh as I've mentioned.
 
I'm sorry, bit late here... misread that and thought the char. equation was r^2 - 1/Lh^2 r = 0, which, from my quick glance, could get you where you wanted. My bad.
 

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