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Rectifying Diodes
19 questions By Tony R. Kuphaldt
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Question 4 of 19
How is it possible to determine the polarity of a rectifying diode (which terminal is the anode, and which terminal is the cathode) from its physical appearance?
Reveal answerI’ll give you a hint: there is a stripe (similar to a color band on a resistor) closer to one end of the diode than the other!
Notes:The answer to this question, if not found in a book, may be easily determined by direct experimentation. I recommend students verify information about electronics through experimentation whenever possible, and not rely solely on someone else’s documentation.
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Question 5 of 19
The “1N400x” series of rectifying diodes are very popular for low-current applications. By “1N400x,” I mean the 1N4001, 1N4002, 1N4003, . . . 1N4007. Only one parameter differs between these different diode models. What parameter is this, and what is its significance?
Reveal answerOnly the reverse (or blocking) voltage rating differs between these diode models.
Notes:Be sure to ask your students where they found the information on these different diode models!
Discuss with your students the importance of this rating, and why a person might choose the 1N4007 diode for an application rather than the 1N4001, for instance.
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Question 6 of 19
Complete the following table of values for this diode circuit, assuming a typical forward voltage drop of 0.65 volts for the diode:
Reveal answer
Notes:Have your students explain all their steps and calculations for solving this problem, so that you and their classmates can examine their problem-solving processes in an open and constructive forum.
