Exam-style question
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What happens to a Zener diode when it is reverse-biased beyond its breakdown voltage?.
- A.It conducts current in the forward direction
- B.It enters reverse breakdown and conducts current
- C.It stops conducting entirely
- D.It behaves like a regular diode
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- It enters reverse breakdown and conducts current
Explanation
Why this works
In reverse bias, when the voltage exceeds the Zener breakdown voltage, the Zener diode allows current to flow, maintaining a stable voltage across it. This is crucial for voltage regulation applications.
Common mistake
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