1 Answer
A diode is a semiconductor device that allows current to flow in one direction only, and it has two sides: the P-side and the N-side.
How They Work Together:
The junction between the P-side and N-side is called the PN junction, and it creates the unique properties of the diode.
- P-side (Positive side): This side is made of positively-doped semiconductor material, meaning it has extra holes (missing electrons) that act as positive charge carriers. In this region, there are fewer electrons available to conduct electricity.
- N-side (Negative side): This side is made of negatively-doped semiconductor material, meaning it has extra electrons that act as negative charge carriers. The N-side has a higher concentration of free electrons compared to the P-side.
How They Work Together:
- When you connect the P-side to the positive terminal of a power source and the N-side to the negative terminal, the diode allows current to flow. This is called forward bias.
- When you reverse the connection (P-side to the negative terminal and N-side to the positive terminal), the diode blocks current flow. This is called reverse bias.
The junction between the P-side and N-side is called the PN junction, and it creates the unique properties of the diode.