Q140 / 150 · MHT CET 2025 (19 Apr Shift 2) · Physics

In unbiased p-n junction diode

  • A
    the potential is same everywhere.
  • B
    there is an electric field at the junction directed from the p-type side to the n-type side.
  • Correct answer
    C
    there is an electric field at the junction directed from the n-type side to p-type side.
  • D
    the p-type side is at higher potential than the n-type side.

Solution

In an unbiased p-n junction, the diffusion of charge carriers creates a depletion region containing immobile ions: negatively charged acceptors on the p-side and positively charged donors on the n-side.

An electric field arises from these immobile charges, directed from the positive ions (n-side) to the negative ions (p-side). Consequently, the n-type side is at a higher potential than the p-type side.

Option A is false due to the established potential barrier. Option B incorrectly reverses the electric field direction. Option C correctly identifies the field direction from n-type to p-type. Option D is incorrect as the n-type side has higher potential.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

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