A-Level Physics Specification

AQA 7408

Section 13.1: Discrete semiconductor devices

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#13.1.1

MOSFET (metal-oxide semiconducting field-effect transistor)

Simplified structure, behaviour and characteristics.

Drain, source and gate.

VDS, VGS, IDSS, and Vth

Use as a switch, use as a device with a very high input resistance.

Use in N-channel, enhancement mode only is required.

#13.1.2

Zener diode

Characteristic curve showing zener breakdown voltage and typical minimum operating current.

Anode and cathode.

Use with a resistor as a constant voltage source.

Use to provide a reference voltage.

Use as a stabiliser is not required.

#13.1.3

Photodiode

Characteristic curves and spectral response curves.

Use in photo-conductive mode as a detector in optical systems.

Use with scintillator to detect atomic particles.

#13.1.4

Hall effect sensor

Use as magnetic field sensor to monitor attitude.

Use in tachometer.

Principles of operation are not required.