The question in the book was: Because of its barrier potential, can a diode be used as a voltage source? Explain.
And my answer would be: Of course! There is a 0.7V loss overcoming the Barrier Potential, VB, but they are used to rectify AC in power supplies all the time to supply voltage. Of course, they can be voltage sources.
But the answer was: A diode cannot be used as a voltage source. The potential opposes current and produces an equilibrium condition, not a source of energy.
Well, it sure isn't a battery and like any device needs protection from excess current. The Barrier Potential Voltage must be overcome for current to flow, but why would it not be a source of voltage? Did I miss something here? Or, am I overthinking this?
I think this is what I don't get: produces an equilibrium condition
What equilibrium?
And my answer would be: Of course! There is a 0.7V loss overcoming the Barrier Potential, VB, but they are used to rectify AC in power supplies all the time to supply voltage. Of course, they can be voltage sources.
But the answer was: A diode cannot be used as a voltage source. The potential opposes current and produces an equilibrium condition, not a source of energy.
Well, it sure isn't a battery and like any device needs protection from excess current. The Barrier Potential Voltage must be overcome for current to flow, but why would it not be a source of voltage? Did I miss something here? Or, am I overthinking this?
I think this is what I don't get: produces an equilibrium condition
What equilibrium?