Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 228 of 494
When a photodiode is operated under reverse bias, how does the generated reverse photocurrent \( I_{\text{photo}} \) depend on the intensity of the incident light \( \Phi \)?
A
It increases directly and linearly with incident light intensity
B
It decreases exponentially with light intensity
C
It is completely independent of light intensity
D
It varies inversely with the square of light intensity
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: It increases directly and linearly with incident light intensity
Concept:

Each absorbed photon with \( hf \ge E_g \) generates one electron-hole pair. The reverse photocurrent is directly proportional to the photon arrival rate (light intensity).

Formula:

$$I_{\text{photo}} = \mathcal{R} \cdot P_{\text{optical}} = \left(\frac{\eta_{\text{ext}} q}{h f}\right) P_{\text{optical}} \propto \Phi$$

Solution:

  • Higher light intensity delivers more photons per second to the depletion region.


  • This generates more electron-hole pairs per second, producing a reverse photocurrent that is directly and linearly proportional to incident light intensity.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option B: Photocurrent increases with illumination; it does not decrease exponentially.
  • Option C: Photodiodes are specifically designed to produce current proportional to light intensity.
  • Option D: The response is linear, not an inverse-square relationship.

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