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BELL SYSTEM TECHNICAL JOURNAL 



approximate methods, and in this way bring out the essential features of 

 the theory of rectilication. 



Xt) 



DISTANCE THROUGH SAMPLE, X- > 



Fig. 5 — Potential and current distributions for forward current in p-n junctions. 



(a) j)-n junction under equilibrium conditions. 



(b) Division of current between holes and electrons. 



(c1 Distribution of potentials for forward current flow showing how the potential 5^ 

 applied at Xa changes ipp, <p„ and \p. 



In Fig. 5 we represent a general situation which may be used to illustrate 

 the nature of the resistance of the junction. Part (a) corresponds to thermal 

 equilibrium and shows the potential distribution and Fermi level in ac- 



