Which type of bonds are likely to get ruptured in the junction breakdown after the generation of the strong electric field
Which type of bonds are likely to get ruptured in the junction breakdown after the generation of the strong electric field of about 108 V/m across the depletion region?
Options:
a. Ionic Bond
b. Covalent Bond
c. Metallic Bond
d. Van der Waals Bond
Correct Answer: b. Covalent Bond
Explanation:
When the junction is heavily doped with narrow depletion layers, breakdown occurs at a particular voltage which ultimately results in enhancing the strength of electric field (108 V/m ). This electric field has the potential to break the covalent bonds by formation of electron – hole pairs. This entire mechanism is supposed to be called as 'Zener Breakdown'. However, large number of current carriers can be produced by a gradual increase in the reverse voltage. As a result, the junction experiences low resistance in the break-down region.
