Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 33 of 494
The dynamic (AC) resistance of a forward-biased \(\text{p-n}\) junction diode is mathematically determined by:
A
The ratio of total DC voltage to total DC current (\(V/I\))
B
The product of forward voltage and forward current (\(V \times I\))
C
The reciprocal of the slope of the forward \(I\)-\(V\) characteristic curve (\(\Delta V / \Delta I\))
D
The square root of the ratio of barrier potential to reverse current
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: The reciprocal of the slope of the forward \(I\)-\(V\) characteristic curve (\(\Delta V / \Delta I\))
Concept:

Dynamic (or AC) resistance represents the opposition offered by the diode to a small AC variation in voltage. It is defined as the reciprocal of the slope of the \(I\)-\(V\) characteristic curve at a given operating point (Q-point).

Formula:

$$r_d = \frac{\Delta V}{\Delta I} = \frac{d V}{d I}$$

Solution:

  • Static (DC) resistance is \(R_{\text{dc}} = \frac{V}{I}\).


  • Dynamic (AC) resistance is \(r_{\text{ac}} = \frac{\Delta V}{\Delta I}\), which is the inverse slope (\(1 / \text{slope}\)) of the \(I\) vs \(V\) plot.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: The ratio \(V/I\) defines static (DC) resistance, not dynamic resistance.
  • Option B: The product \(V \times I\) calculates instantaneous power dissipation.
  • Option D: This mathematical formula has no physical meaning in diode circuit analysis.

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