Question

In case of a practical p-n junction diode, the rise in the junction temperature ___________

(a) decreases the width of the depletion region

(b) increases the barrier potential

(c) increases the width of the depletion region

(d) width of the depletion region increases but the barrier potential remains constant

The question was asked by my school principal while I was bunking the class.

My question is from Power Diodes-2 in chapter Diodes of Power Electronics

Answer 1

The correct option is (a) decreases the width of the depletion region

Easiest explanation: The rise in temperature excites the charges, which go & recombine with the charges in the depletion region decreasing its width. Higher the temperature, lesser is the E.M.F required to turn on the device.