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In which of the following pairs are both electronic components semi-conductors?
`B`
`=>B`
The digital TV receiver uses zener diodes.
Compare the operation of zener diodes with common diodes used in electrical circuits. (3 marks)
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Common diodes
→ Allows current to flow in a forward direction.
→ If exposed to a sufficiently large voltage, common diodes break down.
→ Produced by doping silicon.
→ When subjected to a reverse voltage, common diodes can leak current.
→ Used for rectification.
Zener diodes
→ Semiconductor device that allows current to flow in either a forward or reverse direction.
→ Produced by doping silicon using a different method to that of common diodes.
→ Used for voltage regulation.
→ When breakdown voltage is exceeded they provide a stable reference voltage over a large range of currents when connected in reverse in a circuit.
→ Reverse currents don’t damage zener diodes.
Common diodes
→ Allows current to flow in a forward direction.
→ If exposed to a sufficiently large voltage, common diodes break down.
→ Produced by doping silicon.
→ When subjected to a reverse voltage, common diodes can leak current.
→ Used for rectification.
Zener diodes
→ Semiconductor device that allows current to flow in either a forward or reverse direction.
→ Produced by doping silicon using a different method to that of common diodes.
→ Used for voltage regulation.
→ When breakdown voltage is exceeded they provide a stable reference voltage over a large range of currents when connected in reverse in a circuit.
→ Reverse currents don’t damage zener diodes.