1. Diode Tutorial Video Questions based on the first 4 minutes
URL:
Questions based on the first 4 minutes

2. What is a diode?
How do you know which way to put a diode in your circuit?
a device that allows current to flow in only one direction
check the little stripe on the end for correct orientation

3. What happens when you feed an AC voltage or current through a diode?
half-wave rectification

4. Why is there a missing voltage in the second picture?
There is no such thing as a perfect diode!

5. What is the usual value of Vf?
Which criteria will determine the exact value of Vf?
Vf ~ 0.7V
Exact value determined by:
temperature
current
type of diode

6. Explain these four scenarios as presented in the video.

7. How can you predict whether a diode is going to melt on you?
by calculating the power wasted in the diode
Reading equations:
The power wasted in a diode is given by Vf times the current flowing through it.

8. Compare these two scenarios and explain any potential issues and possible solutions.
low current
low heat
OK to use an ordinary silicon diode
higher current
more heat
better to use a bigger diode or a Schottky diode

9. What do these diagrams tell us about diodes?
Placing diodes in parallel is not a reliable option.

10. Using these two diagrams, explain the term diode switching speed.

11. What are the four important things to keep in mind about a diode before using it?
maximum rated voltage
forward voltage
current rating
switching speed