Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 379 of 494
In the standard \( \text{I-V} \) characteristic plot of a \( \text{P-N} \) junction diode, the reverse-bias leakage current and avalanche breakdown region are plotted in:
A
The first quadrant (\( +V, +I \))
B
The third quadrant (\( -V, -I \))
C
The second quadrant (\( -V, +I \))
D
The fourth quadrant (\( +V, -I \))
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: The third quadrant (\( -V, -I \))
Concept:

Reverse bias applies a negative voltage to the anode relative to the cathode (\( -V \)), resulting in a small reverse leakage current (\( -I \)) until breakdown is reached.

Formula:

$$V_R < 0, \quad I_R < 0 \implies (V_R, I_R) \in \text{Quadrant III}$$

Solution:

  • Reverse voltage appears on the negative horizontal axis (left of the origin).


  • Reverse current flows in the opposite direction and is plotted on the negative vertical axis (below the origin).


  • Therefore, both reverse saturation leakage and avalanche breakdown appear in the third quadrant.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: The first quadrant contains the forward-bias characteristic.
  • Options C & D: Passive diodes do not operate in the second or fourth quadrants.

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.

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