Application of a forward bias to a p-n junction
- widens the depletion zone
- increases the potential difference across the depletion zone
- increases the number of donors on the n side
- decreases the electric field in the depletion zone.
Answer
(4) decreases the electric field in the depletion zone.
Solution
In forward bias, the applied voltage opposes the built-in barrier potential.
Effective barrier height becomes (V0 - V), i.e. it decreases, and the depletion layer becomes narrower.
The electric field in the depletion zone decreases.
The number of donor atoms is fixed by doping and does not change with bias.
Only option (4) is correct.
Answer: (4)