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1 markThe p-n Junction Diode

CAPE Physics Unit 2 · 2005 · Paper 1 · Question 5(a)(ii)

Figure VI shows a p-n junction of a silicon diode connected in a circuit with a power supply and an open switch.

Explain what is meant by the depletion layer at a pn junction and indicate this layer on Figure VI.

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Other parts of this question

  1. 5(a)(i)Sketch the I-V characteristic curve for such a diode.[2 marks]
  2. 5(a)(iii)a)Indicate on Figure VI the direction of the diffusion current by labeling an arrow with an X.[1 mark]
  3. 5(a)(iii)b)Indicate on Figure VI the direction of the drift current by labeling an arrow with a Y.[1 mark]
  4. 5(a)(iv)The switch in Figure VI is now closed. Describe how the depletion layer is affected and explain the effect.[2 marks]
  5. 5(b)For each circuit in Figure VII, (ii)-(iv), sketch the output voltage as seen on the cathode ray oscilloscope on the axes beside the circuit diagram.[3 marks]

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