MCQEasyJEE 2023Semiconductors Basics

JEE Physics 2023 Question with Solution

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion AA and the other is labelled as Reason RR

Assertion AA: Diffusion current in a pp-nn junction is greater than the drift current in magnitude if the junction is forward biased.

Reason RR: Diffusion currents in a pp-nn junction are from the nn-side to the pp-side if the junction is forward biased.

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  • A

    A is not correct but RR is correct

  • B

    Both AA and RR are correct and RR is the correct explanation of AA

  • C

    AA is correct but RR is not correct

  • D

    Both AA and RR are correct but RR is NOT the correct explanation of AA

Answer

Correct answer:C

Step-by-step solution

Standard Method

Given: Assertion AA states that in a forward biased pp-nn junction, diffusion current is greater than drift current in magnitude.

Find: Whether Assertion AA and Reason RR are correct.

In a forward biased pp-nn junction, the potential barrier decreases, so majority charge carriers cross the junction more easily. This increases the diffusion current significantly, while drift current does not become greater than diffusion current.

Reason RR says that diffusion currents are from the nn-side to the pp-side if the junction is forward biased. This statement is not correct as a complete reason for the assertion in the given context.

Therefore, Assertion AA is correct but Reason RR is not correct. The correct option is C.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming that forward bias increases drift current more than diffusion current. This is wrong because forward bias mainly reduces the barrier and enhances majority carrier diffusion. Focus on the effect of forward bias on majority carrier motion across the junction.

  • Treating any stated current direction as sufficient justification for the assertion. This is wrong because the assertion compares magnitudes of diffusion and drift currents, while direction alone does not explain that comparison. First identify which current dominates in forward bias.

Practice more Semiconductors Basics questions

Get unlimited AI-adaptive practice, mastery tracking, and an AI tutor that explains every step — free to start.

Related questions