Total n00b question

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zener_diode Zener Diodes regulate voltage pretty well. For example, if you need a node to maintain a particular voltage even if the current through that node may fluctuate within some limited extremes, a Zener diode is an excellent choice. How you use a Zener diode can take some time to learn as a Zener diode will require a certain voltage across it to function, and the correct amount of current through it but not too much. It is best to place a resistor in series with a Zener diode in order to limit the maximum amount of current you want running though it. If you don't limit the current you will kill your Zener Diode. I'd suggest you read and practice what you have read with paper and pencil and then here in everycircuit :D

(Check this out) http://everycircuit.com/circuit/6197467782840320

Zener diodes work like diodes, but they have a material dependent breakdown voltage when you connect them the "wrong" way. This is really usefull, because this voltage is not dependent on the input voltage, btw. it stays the same.

Consider an ordinary diode - it allows current to flow when it is forward biased and has a volt drop of 0.7V across it. When you reverse the voltage there is very little current flow indeed. If the reverse voltage was increased sufficiently the diode would eventually ‘break down’ and allow lots of current to flow (possibly enough to destroy the diode). This reverse breakdown is due to the avalanche effect and the voltage at which this occurs is usually referred to as the zener voltage. Zener diodes are fabricated to make use of this effect and are available in many voltages. Zener diodes are most commonly used for voltage stabilisation, the simplest circuit consisting merely of a Zener diode and a resistor. Google will show you many circuits making use of Zener diodes. I hope this helps.

Pura mierda compay

Note: you may also have heard of avalanche diodes. These are different but similar to Zener diodes. In fact both types of diode exhibit characteristics of both the Zener and avalanche effects. There is much available online and elsewhere if you want to know more.

Thanks so much, fellow hyoomans! I appreciate all the help! I think I have this somewhat figured out.

Yes, special thanks to carlos2201 for his contribution!

And the Oscar goes to... What? This is not a TV show? Did not notice...

You don’t see my humour? Did you translate the Spanish?

Amused

Of course you are.

Its not castilliano - compay is only really used by Cubans and south Americanos but its used in the lyrics of a famous Cuban all star song...

What I love in this circuit is the classic check circuit topology warning with an inductor connected firmly from ground to ground... NICE!

@zorgrian That's the kind of nostalgia I was going for! I'm so glad that somebody can fully appreciate the depth and nuance of my creation!