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⚛️ Physics  ·  Semiconductor Electronics  ·  NEET & JEE

The I-V equation of a p-n junction diode (Shockley equation):

Answer: I = I₀(e V/VT - 1).

  • A I = I₀(e<sup>V/VT</sup> - 1)
  • B I = V/R
  • C I = I₀ V
  • D I = I₀ e<sup>-V</sup>

Correct answer: A. I = I₀(e<sup>V/VT</sup> - 1)

Explanation: Shockley diode equation: I = I₀(e<sup>V/V<sub>T</sub></sup> - 1) where I₀ = saturation current, V<sub>T</sub> = kT/e ≈ 26 mV at room temperature.

Conductorconduction bandvalence bandbands overlapSemiconductorconduction bandvalence bandsmall gap (~1 eV)Insulatorconduction bandvalence bandlarge gap(> 3 eV)

Conductors have overlapping bands, semiconductors have a small energy gap that can be bridged by heat or doping, and insulators have a large gap that blocks conduction.

Concept context

Band theory, p-n junction, diodes, transistors, logic gates, and integrated circuits.

Read the full Semiconductor Electronics notes →