Contents
Introduction
Theory
Materials Required
Experimental Setup
Procedure
Data Collection and Analysis
Results
Conclusion
References
Introduction
Definition and basic principle of LDR:
Definition:
A Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) is a semiconductor
device whose electrical resistance decreases with
increasing incident light intensity. In other words,
the resistance of an LDR decreases when it is
exposed to light and increases in darkness.
Basic Principle:
The basic principle behind the operation of an LDR is
the phenomenon of photoconductivity in
semicondoctors.
Theory
Working Principle of LDR:
The working principle of a Light Dependent Resistor
(LDR) is based on the phenomenon of
photoconductivity in semiconductors. Here's a
breakdown of the working principle:
Photoconductivity: When light falls on certain
semiconductor materials ,such as cadmium sulfide (CdS)
or cadmium selenide (CdSe), the energy from the
photons (light particles) promotes electrons from the
valence band to the conduction band, increasing the
material's conductivity. This process is known as
photoconductivity.
Resistance Variation: As the conductivity of the
semiconductor material increases under light exposure,
the resistance of the LDR decreases. Conversely, in the
absence of light, the conductivity decreases, leading to
an increase in resistance. This change in resistance with
varying light intensity forms the basis of the LDR's
operation.
Characteristics of LDR:
Resistance vs. Illumination: LDRs exhibit a characteristic
resistance vs. illumination curve, showing how the
resistance changes with varying light intensity.
Dark Resistance: The resistance of an LDR in darkness is
referred to as its dark resistance. It is typically very high
compared to its resistance in light. Spectral Response:
LDRs have a specific spectral response, indicating their
sensitivity to certain wavelengths of light. The sensitivity
depends on the semiconductor material used in the LDR.
Response Time: LDRs have a certain response time,
representing the time taken to change from a high-
resistance state to a low-resistance state (or vice versa)
when the light intensity changes.
Applications of LDR:
Light-Sensitive Circuits: LDRs are widely used in light-
sensitive circuits to control the activation or deactivation
of devices based on ambient light levels. For example, in
automatic street lights that turn on at dusk and off at
dawn.
Light Intensity Meters: LDRs are used in light intensity
meters or lux meters to measure the intensity of light in
various applications like photography, industrial
monitoring, and environmental studies. Burglar Alarms:
LDRs are employed in burglar alarm systems to detect
unauthorized intrusions based on changes in light levels.
For instance, if a room is dark and suddenly illuminated,
the resistance of the LDR changes, triggering the alarm.
Camera Light Meters: In photography, LDRs are used
in light meters to measure the amount of light
available for proper exposure, helping
photographers adjust settings like aperture and
shutter speed.
Solar Panels: LDRs are sometimes used in solar
panels to adjust the panel's orientation or tracking
system based on the incident light angle and
intensity, optimizing the energy capture from the
sun.
In summary, the working principle of an LDR is based
on photoconductivity in semiconductors, leading to a
change in resistance with varying light intensity.
LDRs exhibit specific characteristics like resistance
variation, spectral response, and response time,
making them suitable for various applications
ranging from light-sensitive circuits to solar panels.
Materials Required
List of materials including LDR, Multimeter, Light
source, Variable power supply, Connecting wires,
and Breadboard (if used).
Experimental Setup
Diagram of the experimental setup.
Procedure
Step-by-step procedure for conducting the
experiment.
Procedure:
Place the LDR and a resistor (to form a voltage
divider) on the breadboard or connect them directly
using connecting wires.
Connect one end of the LDR to the positive terminal
of the power supply.
Connect the other end of the LDR to one terminal of
the multimeter (set to measure resistance).
Connect the other terminal of the multimeter to the
negative terminal of the power supply, completing
the circuit.
Place the light source (LED or bulb) at a specific
distance from the LDR to control the light intensity.
Adjust the variable power supply to vary the light
intensity falling on the LDR.
Observe and record the resistance values displayed
on the multimeter corresponding to different light
intensities.
Data Collection and Analysis
Tabulated data of resistance values corresponding to
different light intensities.
Graphical representation and analysis of the data.
Plotting the Graph:
X-axis: Light Intensity or Illumination (measured in
Lux or arbitrary units).
Y-axis: Resistance of the LDR (measured in
Ohms).
Curve Fitting:
Depending on the data, you may observe a non-
linear relationship between resistance and
illumination. You can use curve fitting techniques or
draw a smooth curve to represent the general trend
of the data.
Conclusion
The LDR's ability to change resistance with varying
light intensity makes it a versatile component in
electronic and electrical systems, enabling the
development of devices and systems that respond
dynamically to changes in light conditions. The
comprehensive study and analysis of the LDR's
working principle, characteristics, and applications
provide a foundation for understanding its role in
modern technology and its potential for further
advancements and innovations.
References
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