How does a semiconductor diode work?

A semiconductor diode allows current to flow in one direction and blocks it in the other.

A semiconductor diode is made up of a p-type and an n-type semiconductor material. The p-type material has an excess of positively charged holes, while the n-type material has an excess of negatively charged electrons. When the two materials are brought into contact, a depletion region is formed where the electrons and holes combine and cancel each other out. This region acts as a barrier to the flow of current.

When a voltage is applied across the diode in the forward bias direction, the positive voltage attracts the electrons in the n-type material towards the depletion region, while the holes in the p-type material are attracted in the opposite direction. This reduces the width of the depletion region, allowing current to flow through the diode.

In the reverse bias direction, the voltage repels the electrons and holes away from the depletion region, increasing its width and preventing current flow. However, if the reverse voltage is too high, the diode can break down and allow current to flow in the reverse direction.

Overall, the semiconductor diode is a crucial component in electronic circuits, allowing for the control and manipulation of current flow.