Question

What is the use of a Zener diode?

Answer 1

Hint: A Zener diode is a diode specific form engineered to ensure that a certain reverse voltage (the Zener voltage) is met "backwards" through a stable flow of currents. Zener diodes with a large range of Zener voltages are generated and some are variable.

Complete step-by-step solution -

Many Zener dioxides have a solid, highly doped p – n relation with a low Zener voltage, which is due to electron quantum tunnelling in the short distance between p and n areas-after Clarence Zener, this is known as the Zener effect. Diodes with higher Zener voltage are associated more slowly and avalanche breakdowns are often involved in their mode of activity. All forms of breakdowns arise in Zener diodes, with the Zener effect predisposing low voltages and a higher voltage avalanche breakdown.
It can be seen being used in the following-
a). Used in clipping circuits: Clipper circuits prohibit a signal from reaching a certain value without changing the input signal. AC waveform clipping circuits are modified and developed for the uses of Zener diodes. The clipping circuits limit the shape or protection of one part of the AC waveform. Such kinds of loops are commonly used for the reduction of intrusion by TV and FM transmitters.
b). Over voltage protection: The current across the diode produces a voltage drop through the capacitor as the input voltage rises and exceeds the Zener breakdown voltage. It triggers a short circuit to the board.

Note: Zener diodes are widely used by all manner of electronic devices and constitute one of electronic circuit's basic building blocks. They are used to manufacture high-voltage controlled low-power connection rails and to provide reference voltages for circuits, in particular balanced power supplies. These are often used to stop electrostatic discharge (ESD) from overvoltage.