Question
Which of the following is a Schottky barrier diode?
Answer Options
- A) Metal-semiconductor junction
- B) Electrolytic rectifier
- C) PIN junction
- D) Thermionic emission diode
Correct Answer: A
Explanation
Most standard semiconductor diodes are constructed as P-N junctions, where two differently doped semiconductor materials meet. A Schottky diode, however, uses a different construction method that eliminates the P-N junction itself to achieve faster switching speed and a lower forward voltage drop.
A Schottky barrier diode is a metal-semiconductor junction. It consists of a junction formed between a metal layer (such as aluminum or gold) and a moderately doped semiconductor layer (typically N-type silicon). This structure allows for extremely fast operation because the charge carriers do not need to recombine, minimizing charge storage time.
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