An electronic component that allows electrical current to flow in only one direction. A semiconductor device with two terminals used in circuits for rectification and switching.
Coined in 1919 from Greek 'di-' (two) and 'hodos' (way, path), literally meaning 'two-path'. The term was created to describe the device's two electrodes and its function of providing a one-way path for electrical current.
The humble diode is the foundation of all modern electronics - without it, we wouldn't have computers, smartphones, or LED lights! It's essentially an electronic one-way valve, and its invention made possible the digital revolution by allowing precise control of electrical flow.
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