Current in forward and reverse bias

Thread starter magnifik
Start date Feb 22, 2011
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Bias Current Reverse

In summary, forward bias and reverse bias refer to the direction of current flow in a semiconductor device. In forward bias, current flows easily through the device due to an electric field pushing majority carriers towards the junction, while in reverse bias, current flow is prevented as majority carriers are pulled away from the junction. The conductivity of a semiconductor increases in forward bias and decreases in reverse bias. These biases are used in various electronic devices such as diodes, transistors, and solar cells. Temperature can affect the conductivity and behavior of forward and reverse bias, but excessive temperature can also damage the device.

Feb 22, 2011

magnifik

What are the equations for current due to hole flow and current due to electron flow, respectively? I can't seem to find those formulas anywhere. Are they the same as the saturation current due to hole flow and electron flow?

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Feb 22, 2011

Phrak

Please move this to EE folder

FAQ: Current in forward and reverse bias

What is forward bias and reverse bias?

Forward bias and reverse bias are terms used to describe the direction of current flow in a semiconductor device. In forward bias, the positive terminal of a voltage source is connected to the p-type material and the negative terminal is connected to the n-type material, allowing current to flow through the device. In reverse bias, the positive terminal is connected to the n-type material and the negative terminal is connected to the p-type material, preventing current flow.

How does current flow in forward and reverse bias?

In forward bias, current flows easily through the device due to the majority carriers (electrons in n-type and holes in p-type) being pushed towards the junction by the electric field. This creates a low resistance path for current to flow. In reverse bias, the majority carriers are pulled away from the junction, creating a high resistance path and preventing current flow.

What happens to the conductivity of a semiconductor in forward and reverse bias?

In forward bias, the conductivity of a semiconductor increases due to the majority carriers being pushed towards the junction, allowing for easier current flow. In reverse bias, the conductivity decreases due to the majority carriers being pulled away from the junction, creating a high resistance path.

What are the applications of forward and reverse bias in electronic devices?

Forward and reverse bias are used in various electronic devices such as diodes, transistors, and solar cells. In diodes, forward bias is used to allow current flow in one direction and block current flow in the other direction. In transistors, reverse bias is used to control the flow of current and amplify signals. In solar cells, forward bias is used to generate electricity from light energy.

What are the effects of temperature on forward and reverse bias?

Temperature can affect the conductivity of a semiconductor, which in turn affects the behavior of forward and reverse bias. In forward bias, an increase in temperature can increase the number of minority carriers (electrons in p-type and holes in n-type), causing an increase in current flow. In reverse bias, an increase in temperature can decrease the depletion region width, allowing for more current to flow. However, excessive temperature can also cause damage to the device and affect its performance.