If a p-n junction diode is not connected to any circuit,

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the potential is the same everywhere

the p-type side is at a higher potential than the n-type side

there is an electric field at the junction directed from the p-type side to the n-type side

there is an electric field at the junction directed from the n-type side to p-type side

answer is C.

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Detailed Solution

Electrons from the n-region near the p-n interface tend to diffuse into the p-region after combining p-type and n-type semiconductors.
In the n-region, positively charged ions (donors) are left behind as electrons diffuse.
Similarly, holes start to diffuse into the n-type region from the p-type region close to the p-n contact, leaving fixed ions (acceptors) with a negative charge.
As a result, at the junction, an electric field is created that is directed from the n-type side to the p-type side.

Hence the correct answer is there is an electric field at the junction directed from the n-type side to p-type side.

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