Working principle of the photodiode and photoresistor

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the working principles of photodiodes and photoresistors, exploring their differences in functionality and underlying mechanisms. Participants seek clarification on how each device operates, particularly in relation to light influence on resistance and current.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that a photoresistor changes its resistance under light influence, while a photodiode changes the current across itself.
  • Another participant mentions that the principle behind photoresistors is photoconductivity and seeks to identify the principle used by photodiodes.
  • There is a suggestion to search online for information about photodiodes, indicating that various descriptions are available.
  • A participant expresses confusion despite searching for information, emphasizing the need for clarity on the working principle of photodiodes.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion reflects a lack of consensus, as participants express confusion and seek further clarification on the principles governing photodiodes and photoresistors.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a resolution regarding the specific working principle of photodiodes, and there are indications of varying levels of understanding among them.

akzo
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Hello everyone. I feel myself a little bit confused because I can't understand the difference between the working principle of the photodiode and the photoresistor. The photoresistor changes its resistance under the influence of light while photodiode changes the current across iself. Is this right? I also know that photoresistor use the principle called photoconductivity, but what principle is used by photodiode then? I guess there should be some difference, because why we are talking about resistance in one case and about current in another?

Thanks in advance.
 
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Hi akzo! Does a google search lead you to finding out the basics of a photodiode?
 
Yes It did but I am still confused. I need to find the name of the working principle that lays in the basis of the photodiode, and I guess if I found the answer in google I wouldn't ask the question here.
 
akzo said:
Yes It did but I am still confused. I need to find the name of the working principle that lays in the basis of the photodiode, and I guess if I found the answer in google I wouldn't ask the question here.

how about typing in... How does a photodiode work ? into google
I got 100's of hits with various descriptions
 

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