What are the avalanche and the Zener breakdown?

So the increase is exponential, just like an Avalanche. The problem is, due to this 'impact' (this process is called Impact Ionization by the way), heat is generated, and this heat could destroy the diode. read more

Both the phenomena of zener and avalanche breakdown achieve this. They both introduce a large number of free charge carriers in the depletion region. The difference between the two is in the manner in which free charge carriers are generated in the depletion region. read more

In Zener breakdown, the breakdown voltage depends on the temperature of P-N junction.The breakdown voltage decreases with increase in the junction temperature. Avalanche Breakdown. The avalanche breakdown is observed in the Zener Diodes having V z having than 8 V. read more

Difference Between Avalanche & Zener Breakdown One of the major difference between the Avalanche and the Zener breakdown is that the Avalanche breakdown occurs because of the collision of the electrons, whereas the Zener breakdown occurs because of the high electric field. read more