PN junctions and diodes

What is the property of a diode that lets current flow easily in one direction but hardly at all in the other called?

  1. AThe photoelectric effect
  2. BRectification
  3. CAmplification
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Answer: B. Rectification

The property of conducting well in the forward direction and hardly at all in the reverse direction is called rectification. Rectifier circuits that convert AC to DC are built using this property.

  • A. The photoelectric effect is the emission of electrons or generation of carriers by light.
  • B. Correct. Conducting in only one direction is rectification.
  • C. Amplification makes small signals larger and is done by devices such as transistors.
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More PN junctions and diodes questions

  1. Which statement correctly describes the depletion layer of a PN junction in thermal equilibrium?
  2. In which direction is a voltage regulator (Zener) diode normally used in a voltage regulator circuit?
  3. When a sinusoidal AC signal is applied to a half-wave rectifier made of one diode and a resistor, what is the output?
  4. When an LED is connected to a power supply to light it, what is the main purpose of a resistor in series with the LED?
  5. What is the main purpose of placing a capacitor in parallel with the output of a rectifier?