V-I Curve
Data Points 0
Mode Voltage (V) Current (mA)
Zener Voltage ($V_z$) (Reverse Breakdown Point)
--

Zener Diode Physics

A Zener diode is a specialized PN junction diode designed to operate reliably in the **reverse breakdown region**.

Symbol
Zener Symbol
1. Forward Bias

Behaves like a standard diode. Current is negligible until the applied voltage exceeds the **Knee Voltage ($\approx 0.7V$)**, after which current rises exponentially.

2. Reverse Bias

Current is nearly zero (leakage only) until the reverse voltage reaches the **Zener Voltage ($V_z$)**. At this point, the junction breaks down (Zener/Avalanche effect), and current flows freely while voltage remains constant.

Step-by-Step Guide

1
Set Forward Bias

Toggle the switch to "Forward". Increase voltage from 0V to 1V. Observe current rise after 0.7V.

2
Set Reverse Bias

Toggle to "Reverse". This is the critical Zener operation mode.

3
Find Breakdown ($V_z$)

Increase voltage towards 10V. Around **5.6V**, you will see the Voltmeter stop increasing while the Ammeter spikes. This constant voltage is $V_z$.

DC Rs=100Ω mA V
Current
0.0
mA
Voltage
0.00
Volts
0.0V
0.0 V
Connection Bias