What does a photodiode do?

A photodiode functions by converting light into electrical current, making it an essential component in various optical applications. When light photons strike the photodiode's semiconductor material, they create electron-hole pairs. This generation of charge carriers leads to a flow of current when the photodiode is connected to an external circuit, effectively transforming the light energy into electrical energy.

The role of a photodiode in this process is significant in fields like telecommunications, where it can detect light signals in fiber optics, as well as in imaging systems, where it captures light from scenes to produce photographs. The efficiency of this conversion affects the overall performance of devices that utilize photodiodes for sensing or communication purposes.