Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 211 of 494
If the temperature of a reverse-biased silicon diode increases by \( 30^\circ\text{C} \), by approximately what factor will its reverse saturation leakage current \( I_0 \) increase?
A
2 times
B
8 times
C
3 times
D
30 times
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: 8 times
Concept:

The reverse saturation current \( I_0 \) of a PN junction diode approximately doubles for every \( 10^\circ\text{C} \) increase in temperature.

Formula:

$$I_0(T_2) = I_0(T_1) \times 2^{\frac{\Delta T}{10}}$$

Solution:

  • Given: \( \Delta T = 30^\circ\text{C} \).


  • Number of \( 10^\circ\text{C} \) intervals: \( n = \frac{30}{10} = 3 \).


  • Current scaling factor: \( 2^3 = 8 \).


  • Therefore, the reverse leakage current increases by approximately 8 times.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: 2 times corresponds to a \( 10^\circ\text{C} \) increase.
  • Option C: 3 times incorrectly assumes a linear rather than exponential increase.
  • Option D: 30 times incorrectly scales directly with the temperature change.

Quality & Fidelity Assurance: Every question on BeambePrep is rigorously curated against the official PMDC syllabus with zero filler, zero out-of-syllabus content, and zero typos. When an authentic past paper originally contained a historical mistake or ambiguity from the examining board (such as UHS or NUMS), BeambePrep faithfully reflects the original paper while detailing the nuance and scientific consensus in the autopsy above.

Previous Question All Electronics MCQs Next Question

Want to solve full-length papers under timed exam conditions?

Practice with zero-scroll lockdown sprints, dynamic latency zone timers, live peer selection telemetry, and the automated Amber mistake recovery loop.

Enter Arena Sprint iOS App Android App