Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 52 of 494
Which of the following expressions correctly represents the dynamic (AC) conductance (\(g_d\)) of a forward-biased ideal \(\text{p-n}\) junction diode operating at room temperature with thermal voltage \(V_T = \frac{k_B T}{q} \approx 25\text{ mV}\)?
A
\(g_d = \frac{V_T}{I_D}\)
B
\(g_d = \frac{I_D^2}{V_T}\)
C
\(g_d = \frac{I_D}{\eta V_T}\)
D
\(g_d = \eta V_T I_D\)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: \(g_d = \frac{I_D}{\eta V_T}\)
Concept:

Dynamic conductance (\(g_d\)) is the reciprocal of dynamic resistance (\(r_d\)). Differentiating the Shockley diode equation with respect to voltage yields a dynamic conductance directly proportional to the forward bias current.

Formula:

$$I_D \approx I_s e^{\frac{V_D}{\eta V_T}} \implies g_d = \frac{d I_D}{d V_D} = \frac{I_D}{\eta V_T}$$

$$r_d = \frac{1}{g_d} = \frac{\eta V_T}{I_D}$$

Solution:

  • Differentiating forward diode current \(I_D\) with respect to forward voltage \(V_D\):


  • $$\frac{d I_D}{d V_D} = \frac{1}{\eta V_T} \left( I_s e^{\frac{V_D}{\eta V_T}} \right) = \frac{I_D}{\eta V_T}$$


  • Therefore, the dynamic conductance is \(g_d = \frac{I_D}{\eta V_T}\).


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: \(V_T / I_D\) is the dynamic resistance (\(r_d\)), not conductance.
  • Option B: Conductance has units of Siemens (\(\text{A/V}\)); \(I_D^2 / V_T\) has incorrect dimensions of \(\text{A}^2 / \text{V}\).
  • Option D: Multiplying \(V_T\) by \(I_D\) gives power dimensions (\(\text{Watts}\)), not conductance.

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