Question

When a diode is reverse biased

• A. applied voltage in the p-side is positive
• B. the depletion layer width decreases
• C. the applied voltage is in the opposite direction of barrier potential
• D. minority carriers are not allowed to cross the barrier
• E. the barrier height increases

Hint:

In reverse bias, the depletion layer widens, which increases the potential barrier and prevents current flow.

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

When a diode is reverse biased, the voltage applied across the diode increases the width of the depletion region, which increases the barrier height. This prevents the flow of charge carriers across the junction. 
Thus, the correct answer is (E).