What is typically the forward voltage drop of a standard LED?

The forward voltage drop of a standard LED is typically around 2 volts. This value can vary slightly depending on the specific type of LED and its color, but for many common types of LEDs, especially those in the red to yellow spectrum, 2 volts is a standard benchmark.

When current flows through an LED, it requires a certain threshold voltage to emit light, known as the forward voltage. This voltage is necessary to overcome the energy barrier at the p-n junction of the LED. For many standard LEDs, particularly those made from materials like GaAsP (Gallium Arsenide Phosphide), the forward voltage in the range of 1.8V to 2.2V is common when powered at typical operating currents.

Higher voltage drops are more typical of different LED technologies, such as blue or white LEDs, which may require around 3 volts or more due to their different semiconductor materials. However, for standard red, green, and yellow LEDs, the forward voltage drop is appropriately summarized by the value of about 2 volts.