When wired in the correct direction, what is the minimum voltage required for a diode to allow current to flow?

Prepare for the NCEA Level 2 Physics Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Diodes are semiconductor devices that allow current to flow primarily in one direction, and to do so, they require a minimum voltage threshold known as the forward voltage drop. When wired in the correct direction, the diode will only conduct current once this threshold is reached.

Silicon diodes, which are the most common type used in circuits, typically have a forward voltage drop around 0.6 to 0.7 volts. This means that a minimum voltage of approximately 0.6 volts is needed for the diode to start conducting significant current. Below this voltage, the diode remains in a non-conductive state, preventing current from flowing.

In this context, the choice of 0.6 volts accurately reflects the behavior of silicon diodes, making it the correct answer for the minimum voltage required for current to flow through the diode when wired correctly.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy