Connected in the forward direction, a Zener diode behaves the same as a standard diode, with little resistance to current flow and a small voltage drop of 0.3 to 0.7V. In the reverse direction, however, only a very small leakage current can flow between 0V and the Zener voltage; then, when the voltage reaches the breakdown, suddenly current can flow freely.
Zener diodes are used in voltage-limiting circuits.
Related category ELECTRONICS AND SEMICONDUCTORS
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