Given below are V versus I graphs for different types of p-n junction…

The correct answer is Option (1) → (D), (C), (A), (B)

Each device is recognised by the quadrant in which it works and by the scale of its current (mA or \( \mu \)A).

Forward biased p-n junction — graph (D). The current is almost zero up to the knee voltage and then rises steeply (in mA) in the first quadrant.

Zener diode — graph (C). It shows a small forward curve and, in reverse bias, a sudden vertical rise of current at the breakdown voltage \( V_Z \).

Photo diode — graph (A). It is operated in reverse bias, so it works in the third quadrant with a small reverse current in \( \mu \)A that depends on the light falling on it.

Solar cell — graph (B). It generates power, so its curve lies in the fourth quadrant between the open-circuit voltage \( V_{OC} \) and the short-circuit current \( I_{SC} \).

The sequence is (D), (C), (A), (B).

Note: This question is from the pre-rationalised NCERT book (2022-23). The topic was removed from the latest NCERT book (2026-27), and it also appears to be out of the CUET 2026 syllabus.

NCERT (Pre-rationalised edition, 2022-23):
Zener Diode – “… It is designed to operate under reverse bias in the breakdown region and used as a voltage regulator.”

Optoelectronic Junction Devices – “… (i) Photodiode A Photodiode is again a special purpose p-n junction diode fabricated with a transparent window to allow light to fall on the diode. It is operated under reverse bias.”

Optoelectronic Junction Devices – “… Note that the I – V characteristics of solar cell is drawn in the fourth quadrant of the coordinate axes.”