2007-06-27 01:12:51 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
The resistance of a semiconductor can be negative over part of its operating range. The tunnel diode is such a device.
2007-06-27 19:35:21 · answer #1 · answered by Frank N 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
No, this would imply that passive components (such as resistors) can behave as amplifiers, which would violate conservation of energy, as well as plenty of other important principles. For the most immediate reason why this would not be possible, look at the equation V=IR for a ciruit. If a voltage V is applied and the resistance is negative, current will flow in the direction opposite of what is does in nature. This would mean that individual electrons have an overall positive charge, because they would be flowing FROM the ground and into the hot terminal of the circuit.
2007-06-27 08:19:05 · answer #2 · answered by Not Eddie Money 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Resistance is a measure of the fraction of energy dissipated as heat. A negative resistance would therefore imply spontaneously absorbing heat and transforming it into useful electrical energy, which violates the second law of thermodynamics.
2007-06-27 08:19:01 · answer #3 · answered by Israfel 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
It can be zero but not negative. It can have negative temperature coefficient. But how can there be negative resistance? That means the current should increase. Not possible isn't it?
2007-06-27 08:19:51 · answer #4 · answered by Swamy 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋