What does "forward bias" indicate regarding voltage in semiconductors?

Forward bias in semiconductors is a condition that occurs when the positive terminal of a voltage source is connected to the P-type material and the negative terminal is connected to the N-type material. This arrangement reduces the barrier potential at the junction of the two types of semiconductor material, allowing charge carriers (holes from the P-type and electrons from the N-type) to flow across the junction. As a result, a significant current can flow through the semiconductor device, such as a diode, facilitated by this applied voltage.

This setup is essential for proper operation in various electronic applications, as forward bias enables the semiconductor to conduct electricity efficiently, which is crucial for functions like rectification in diodes or switching in transistors.