What happens to a germanium diode when properly forward biased?

When a germanium diode is properly forward biased, it allows current to flow through it. This is due to the intrinsic properties of diodes, which are semiconductor devices designed to control the direction of current. In a forward-biased condition, the positive voltage is applied to the p-type material and the negative voltage to the n-type material of the diode. This reduces the barrier potential at the junction, enabling charge carriers (electrons and holes) to cross the junction and produce current flow.

Germanium diodes typically have a lower forward voltage drop than silicon diodes, often around 0.2 to 0.3 volts, making them efficient for certain applications. It is important for the diode to be properly biased; otherwise, it will not conduct, and no current will flow. This behavior is fundamental to how diodes are utilized in electronic circuits for rectification and signal processing.