Question

If ‘X’ corresponds to a tunnel diode and ‘Y’ to an avalanche diode, then__________

(a) X operates in reverse bias and Y operates in forward bias

(b) X operates in reverse bias and Y operates in reverse bias

(c) X operates in forward bias and Y operates in forward bias

(d) X operates in forward bias and Y operates in reverse bias

The question was posed to me by my school teacher while I was bunking the class.

Question is taken from Tunnel Diodes and its Characteristics topic in portion Semiconductor-Diode Characteristics of Electronic Devices & Circuits

Answer 1

The correct choice is (d) X operates in forward bias and Y operates in reverse bias

To explain I would say: In forward bias, negative resistance helps for tunnel diode to operate. Here, the current decreases with increase in voltage. If they are used in reverse bias, they are called as back diodes. Avalanche diode operates in reverse bias at breakdown region.