Diode Information

Diodes

Diodes are components to prevent current from flowing both ways
In forward bias, the Diode will only operate on as much voltage as the knee voltage.

Silicon diodes have a knee voltage of 0.7 volts

The knee voltage is the amount of voltage needed for the diode to let electrons through.
The breakdown region is when there is too much reverse voltage for the diode to prevent electrons flowing in reverse bias and cannot operate.

Zener Diodes
Zener Diodes also have a knee voltage of 0.7 volts.
Zener diodes have a preset breakdown voltage which will let electrons flow when the correct amount of voltage is applied in reverse bias.