Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 5 of 494
When a reverse bias voltage is applied across a \(\text{p-n}\) junction, the space charge layer widens because:
A
Majority carriers are attracted away from the junction by external terminals
B
Majority carriers are pushed across the junction into opposite regions
C
Thermal generation of minority electron-hole pairs completely ceases
D
Immobile ions within the depletion region are neutralized by mobile carriers
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: Majority carriers are attracted away from the junction by external terminals
Concept:

In reverse biasing, the positive terminal of the external source connects to the n-type region and the negative terminal to the p-type region. This pulls majority electrons in the n-region and majority holes in the p-region away from the junction interface.

Formula:

$$V_{\text{net}} = V_0 + V_r$$

Solution:

  • The external field aligns in the same direction as the internal built-in electric field.


  • Majority carriers are drawn away from the junction, exposing additional immobile ionized donor and acceptor atoms.


  • This broadens the space-charge layer and widens the depletion width \(W\).


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option B: Pushing majority carriers across the junction occurs exclusively in forward bias.
  • Option C: Thermal generation depends on temperature, not on the applied bias polarity.
  • Option D: Immobile ions are uncovered, not neutralized, thereby increasing the depletion region width.

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