3
$\begingroup$

Can I use the analogy of combination of two batteries to get the potential difference between two points(by applying Kirchhoff's law) in case ,if a pn junction diode is used in the place of other battery?

Consider a simple case shown in figure,there in situation 1 potential due to two batteries are added up and in situation two the the second battery is replaced by a diode in forward bias, if I apply Kirchhoff's law then moving from point AI am gaining a potential of 2V and a gain in potential V(s) in diode . In doing so what is the basic mistake I am doing?
As per Wikipedia in forward bias net voltage = 2V-Vs, but if I follow the above approach iam getting 2V+Vs. I think about this a lot but could not get any idea.

schematic representation of my question

$\endgroup$
5
  • $\begingroup$ Hi, strictly speaking that's not a homework question. It is big doubt of mine $\endgroup$
    – JM97
    Commented Jan 2, 2016 at 12:36
  • $\begingroup$ Hello, and welcome to Stack Exchange. It isn't clear what you're asking here. Perhaps if you transcribed and elaborated the text in your image, you'd have a better chance of getting a good answer. $\endgroup$ Commented Jan 7, 2016 at 3:39
  • $\begingroup$ @DanielGriscom I have transcribed and elaborated the text in the image , hope this helps. $\endgroup$
    – JM97
    Commented Mar 13, 2016 at 1:02
  • $\begingroup$ You need to read the answers to the question "pn junction voltage drop?" physics.stackexchange.com/q/86843 $\endgroup$
    – Farcher
    Commented Mar 22, 2016 at 7:18
  • $\begingroup$ @Farcher Iam not getting satisfactory answer. $\endgroup$
    – JM97
    Commented Mar 23, 2016 at 9:16

1 Answer 1

1
$\begingroup$

See this image from http://www.allaboutcircuits.com/textbook/semiconductors/chpt-2/the-p-n-junction/:

P-N junction

By looking at graph shown, we can say that in forward bias, PN junction is working as passive device (V/I > 0). So, it causes a voltage drop in this case. Thus, net voltage will be 2V-Vs.

When we talk about reversed bias, then net voltage will be 2V+Vs.

$\endgroup$
1
  • $\begingroup$ @JM97 my actual field is biology. But as you requested me to answer this, I tried my best. Hope this helps :) $\endgroup$ Commented Mar 24, 2016 at 11:59

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.