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Question
Explain, with the help of a circuit diagram, the working of a photo-diode. Write briefly how it is used to detect the optical signals.
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Solution
Working of photo diode:
A junction diode made from light sensitive semi-conductor is called a photodiode.

A photodiode is an electrical device used to detect and convert light into an energy signal through the use of a photo detector. It is a pn-junction whose function is controlled by the light allowed to fall on it. Suppose, the wavelength is such that the energy of a photon, hc/λ, is sufficient to break a valance bond. When such light falls on the junction, new hole-electron pairs are created. The number of charge carriers increases and hence the conductivity of the junction increases. If the junction is connected in some circuit, the current in the circuit is controlled by the intensity of the incident light.
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