Question

Explain zener diode?

Answer 1

Hi Umang!

Zener diode is a special purpose P-N junction diode. It was invented by Clarence Zener. A zener diode works as a normal P-N junction diode in the forward biased condition. The specialty is that, it is designed to operate in the reverse biased condition! The normal diode will not allow current flow in the reverse biased condition, and if the reverse voltage exceeds the breakdown voltage, the diode may get permanently damaged. But the zener diode will not damage, even if the reverse voltage exceeds the breakdown value. The voltage across the zener diode will stay stable, irrespective of the input voltage. So the zener diode is ideal for applications requiring stabilized voltages.

Cheers!!