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Diode (Noun)

A semiconductor that consists of a p-n junction.

Nouns denoting man-made objects.

The diode is a fundamental component in electronic circuits, allowing current to flow in one direction while blocking it in the other.
A typical diode consists of a p-type semiconductor material joined to an n-type semiconductor material, forming a p-n junction.
The diode's p-n junction creates a barrier that prevents current from flowing in the reverse direction, making it useful for rectification.
In a solar panel, diodes are used to prevent backflow of current from the battery to the panel during periods of low sunlight.
The voltage drop across a diode is typically around 0.7 volts, which is a characteristic property of silicon diodes.

A thermionic tube having two electrodes; used as a rectifier.

Nouns denoting man-made objects.

The early radio receiver used a diode as the detector to convert radio signals to sound.
The invention of the diode in 1904 by John Ambrose Fleming was an important milestone in the development of electronic devices.
A vacuum tube diode is still used today in some guitar amplifiers for its distinctive distortion and warm sound.
In the early 20th century, the diode played a crucial role in the development of the first radios and televisions.
The first high-vacuum diode was developed in the early 1900s, which eventually led to the invention of the triode and other more complex thermionic tubes.