9.6 Diodes Flashcards
What does a diode do?
Only allow current to flow in one direction.
What is an LED?
An LED (Light Emitting Diode) is a semiconductor device that emits light when current flows through it. The light is produced by the movement of electrons in the semiconductor material, which releases energy in the form of photons (light)
What is the I-V characteristic for a diode?
The pd is not directly proportional to the current through it. A diode does not obey Ohm’s law so it can be described as a non-Ohmic component. The resistance is not constant.
What does a threshold mean?
The minimum voltage required for the diode to conduct current in one direction.
In case of an LED, the minimum voltage to emit light.