(definition)
Effect of recombination currents. High injection effects also shown. Note: recombination does not contribute to Ic!
General behavior of β (hFE) as a function of collector current (from Sze). Low currents: Recombination currents dominate (just as in diode). High currents: High injection effects (increases effective base doping) and series resistance effects increase.
This looks good, but: Only part of the emitter is active, but the whole emitter contributes capacitance. High current density reduces current gain.