Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 250 of 494
In a PN junction diode, how do transition capacitance (\( C_T \)) and diffusion capacitance (\( C_D \)) differ in their physical origins and operating bias conditions?
A
CT dominates in forward bias; CD dominates in reverse bias
B
Both capacitances are constant and equal under all biasing conditions
C
CT dominates in reverse bias (space-charge modulation); CD dominates in forward bias (minority carrier storage)
D
Both capacitances arise from electromagnetic air-gap induction
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: CT dominates in reverse bias (space-charge modulation); CD dominates in forward bias (minority carrier storage)
Concept:

Transition capacitance (\( C_T \)) arises from changes in the space-charge layer with reverse voltage, while diffusion capacitance (\( C_D \)) arises from the storage of injected minority carriers near the junction edges during forward conduction.

Formula:

$$C_T = \frac{\epsilon_s A}{W} \propto (V_0 + V_R)^{-1/2} \quad (\text{Dominates in Reverse Bias})$$

$$C_D = \frac{\tau I_F}{\eta V_T} \propto I_F \quad (\text{Dominates in Forward Bias})$$

Solution:

  • In reverse bias, the depletion layer acts as a voltage-variable capacitor dielectric, making \( C_T \) the dominant capacitance.


  • In forward bias, injected minority carriers accumulate outside the depletion region, creating a large diffusion capacitance \( C_D \) proportional to forward current \( I_F \).


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: This reverses the operating bias domains for \( C_T \) and \( C_D \).
  • Option B: Both capacitances depend strongly on applied voltage and current.
  • Option D: Junction capacitance is an internal solid-state semiconductor property.

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