What is the primary characteristic of a Zener diode that distinguishes it from a regular diode?

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  1. Sharp breakdown voltage and ability to regulate voltage 
  2. Low forward voltage drop
  3. High reverse breakdown voltage
  4. High forward current rating

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Sharp breakdown voltage and ability to regulate voltage 
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Zener diode

  • A Zener diode is a heavily doped semiconductor device that is designed to operate in the reverse direction.
  • Under the forward-bias condition, the zener diode works as a normal PN junction diode.
  • During the reverse-bias condition, when the voltage across the terminals of a zener diode reaches the zener Voltage (breakdown voltage), the junction breaks down, and the current flows from the cathode to the anode.
  • The primary characteristic that distinguishes a Zener diode from a regular diode is its ability to maintain a constant voltage in the reverse breakdown region. 
  • This is due to the Zener diode's designed doping, allowing it to conduct current when the reverse voltage reaches a specific value, known as the Zener voltage. This feature makes Zener diodes useful for voltage regulation and protection. 

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