Question

what is mean by potential barrier and depletion layer.

Answer 1

Dear Student,

At the junction of p-n diode, the electron from n-side and hole from p-side diffuses at the junction by leaving behind a ionised immobile charge on either side of junction. This layer of immobile charges formed either side of junction is called depletion region.

The potential differences due to these immobile charges across the depletion region is known as the potential barrier as they prevent the movement of electron to go from n- to p-side.