Concept:In forward bias, the applied voltage opposes the barrier potential of a
p-
n junction, which affects the depletion layer.
Explanation:When a
p-
n junction diode is forward biased, the
p-side is connected to the positive terminal and the
n-side to the negative terminal of the battery.
This external voltage acts against the built-in barrier potential.
As a result, the potential barrier is reduced and the depletion layer becomes thinner.
A thinner depletion layer allows charge carriers to cross the junction more easily, so electric conduction becomes possible.
Therefore, the width of the depletion layer decreases in forward bias.
Answer:Option A: width of depletion layer decreases.