Solution
Related Formula
Itotal = IZ + IL Itotal = Vᵢₙ - VZRS RL = (VZ)/(IL)Core Logic
Given parameters:
- Input voltage, Vᵢₙ = 25~V
- Zener breakdown voltage, VZ = 5~V
- Series resistor, RS = 400~Ω
The voltage drop across the series resistor RS is:
The total series current I is:
Itotal = VRSRS = (20)/(400) = 0.05~A = 50~mAWe are given that the zener current IZ is 4 times the load current IL:
IZ = 4 IL
Since Itotal = IZ + IL:
50~mA = 4 IL + IL = 5 IL IL = 10~mAThe load resistance connected in parallel with the Zener diode is:
RL = (VZ)/(IL) = 5~V10 × 10⁻³~A = 500~ΩStep 1: Final Conclusion
The load current is 10~mA and the load resistance is 500~Ω.
Pattern Recognition
In any zener regulator problem: first determine the series path current using Itotal = Vᵢₙ - VZRₛ. Split this total current using the given ratio of IZ and IL. Finally, determine RL from VZ / IL.
Chapter Mix
Class 12 Physics: Semiconductor Electronics