where the emission coefficient n varies between 1 - 2 depending on the level of
recombination effect and IS is the diode reverse saturation current. And Vt = kT/q is the
thermal voltage (approximately 25.8 mV at 300K).
The primary function of the diode is the rectification. When it is forward biased
(higher potential at the anode lead), it will pass current. When it is reverse biased
(higher potential at the cathode lead), the current is blocked. The typical characteristic
curves of an ideal diode and a real diode are illustrated in Figure 2.