3-2) Diode Configurations

Question 1

What is the generic term to describe the directionality of current flow that most diodes exhibit?

Answer 1

Rectifying Property

Question 2

What is the most common function of a diode?

Answer 2

To allow current to pass in only one direction. It is a unidirectional device.

Question 3

What is the typical level of voltage required to forward bias a standard silicone P-N junction diode?

Answer 3

0.7V

Question 4

What level of bias voltage is required to forward bias germanium diodes?

Answer 4

0.3V

Question 5

By how much will the peak value of the input signal be lost when it passes through a standard silicone P-N junction diode?

Answer 5

0.7V, this is the amount of voltage that is required to forward bias the diode before it begins conducting current. This is the component’s voltage drop.

Question 6

What happens to current when a typical junction diode is reverse biased?

Answer 6

It stops, acts as an open switch