Physics Semiconductor Electronics: Materials, Devices and Simple Circuits 1 Mark
Appeared in: 2026 (3 sets)
A good diode checked by a multimeter should indicate : (A) high resistance in reverse bias and a low resistance in forward bias (B) high resistance in both forward bias and reverse bias (C) low resistance in both reverse bias and forward bias (D) high resistance in forward bias and low resistance in reverse bias
✓ Verified CBSE Marking Scheme Official Evaluation Steps & EL10 Insight

Question: A good diode checked by a multimeter should indicate :

Step 1 (Governing Principle): [0.5 Mark]
The fundamental property of a $p\text{-}n$ junction diode is its unidirectional current flow. According to the NCERT physics curriculum, a diode acts as a conductor in forward bias (where the $p$-region is connected to the positive terminal and $n$-region to the negative terminal) and as an insulator in reverse bias (where the $p$-region is connected to the negative terminal and $n$-region to the positive terminal).

Step 2 (Logical Deduction): [0.25 Mark]
By Ohm's Law, $R = \frac{V}{I}$.

  • In forward bias, the depletion layer narrows, allowing a large current ($I$) to flow, resulting in a low resistance ($R$).
  • In reverse bias, the depletion layer widens, restricting current flow to a negligible leakage current, resulting in a high resistance ($R$).

Step 3 (Final Concluded Answer): [0.25 Mark]
Comparing the deduction with the given options, a functional diode must show low resistance in forward bias and high resistance in reverse bias. Therefore, the correct option is (A).

💡 EL10 Concept Insight: Think of a diode like a one-way turnstile at a park; it lets you walk through easily in one direction (forward bias), but it locks up and stops you completely if you try to go the other way (reverse bias).