In a Zener diode operating in reverse breakdown, the dominant breakdown mechanism for low-voltage (<5 V) Zeners is which?
AAvalanche multiplication via impact ionization always
BQuantum tunneling through thin depletion (Zener)
CPure thermal generation at junction at all temperatures
DSurface leakage along the junction at all bias points
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. Quantum tunneling through thin depletion (Zener)
Low-VZ (<5 V): heavy doping ⟹ thin depletion ⟹ direct tunneling (Zener). Higher VZ (>7 V): avalanche multiplication. 5-7 V: mixed. Affects temperature coefficient sign.
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