Question

When the voltage across the zener diode increases_________

(a) temperature remains constant and crystal ions vibrate with large amplitudes

(b) temperature increases and crystal ions vibrate with large amplitudes

(c) temperature remains constant and crystal ions vibrate with smaller amplitudes

(d) temperature decreases and crystal ions vibrate with large amplitudes

I had been asked this question in an interview for internship.

Question is taken from Breakdown Diodes in section Semiconductor-Diode Characteristics of Electronic Devices & Circuits

Answer 1

The correct option is (b) temperature increases and crystal ions vibrate with large amplitudes

The best explanation: When voltage is increased, the tunnelling at reverse bias increases. The voltage rises temperature. The crystal ions with greater thermal energy tend to vibrate with larger amplitudes.