Electronics
Learn the key concepts of Electronics for A/L Physics, explained simply · Aligned with the NIE syllabus
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Grade 2 · Term 5
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Learn the key concepts of Electronics for A/L Physics, explained simply
About A/L Physics: The A/L Physics syllabus is structured across two academic years, covering fundamental and advanced topics in mechanics, waves, electricity, and modern physics. Every topic on Idasara Academy is mapped directly to the NIE curriculum.
Zener Diode
A diode designed to operate in the reverse breakdown region at a precise, stable voltage.
Unlike a normal diode which is destroyed by reverse breakdown, a Zener diode is doped to have a sharp, controlled breakdown voltage (Vz). When reverse-biased beyond Vz, it conducts heavily while maintaining a nearly constant voltage across its terminals. This makes it ideal for voltage regulation.
Zener Breakdown
The mechanism where a high electric field in the depletion region causes covalent bonds to break, generating free electron-hole pairs.
This occurs at relatively low voltages (typically < 5–6 V) and has a negative temperature coefficient (Vz decreases with temperature). For higher voltages (> 6 V), avalanche breakdown dominates, which has a positive temperature coefficient.
Source: Idasara knowledge pack — english/AL_SCIENCE/physics v19, short_notes: Lesson 9.3 - Zener Diodes & Regulation
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