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In the small signal model of a MOSFET, the current from the drain to the source (for an n channel MOSFET) is a function of the gate to source voltage only.

But, if a positive voltage was not applied at the drain, the current wouldn't flow in the first place.

So, why is the drain to source voltage not considered?

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    \$\begingroup\$ I would review how a small signal model is derived- that would give you the answer. \$\endgroup\$
    – user201365
    Commented Oct 23, 2018 at 20:36

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A small-signal model is only valid around a certain operating point. Your particular model makes the assumption that the DC bias voltage on the drain is such that the model is valid, and the AC drive voltage at the gate is small enough that the gm approximation works.

As an example, the Id vs VGS characteristic for a particular FET is shown below with Vds=15V. Graphic from here. If your gate is biased at the point on the diagram where the slope of the curve is gm, then those would be the conditions around which your small-signal model would be valid.
enter image description here

For different DC conditions you may have different values of gm and output resistance.

enter image description here

You can Google all kinds of detailed explanations of how to derive a small-signal model and the assumptions made.

Here's one example: Small-signal derivation Here's another: MOSFET Small Signal Modelling

Maybe after reviewing what you can find with Google you could post a new question with any specific doubts you have about what you find.

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  • \$\begingroup\$ Thanks, but can you elaborate a bit more on this concept? \$\endgroup\$
    – Curiosity
    Commented Oct 23, 2018 at 20:38
  • \$\begingroup\$ That is to say, what assumption is made about the DC bias voltage? \$\endgroup\$
    – Curiosity
    Commented Oct 23, 2018 at 20:39
  • \$\begingroup\$ @Curiosity Elaborated. \$\endgroup\$
    – John D
    Commented Oct 23, 2018 at 21:01
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    \$\begingroup\$ A small signal model is only valid for a biased MOSFET, so a drain current MUST flow. The behavior of a MOSFET when Vds = 0 isn't modeled/considered in the small signal model. It would be pointless to do so because when Vds = 0 the MOSFET cannot "do" anything with a signal. \$\endgroup\$ Commented Oct 23, 2018 at 21:01
  • \$\begingroup\$ @Bimpelrekkie: Well, you could make a small-signal model of a MOSFET with 0V drain to source. Depending on V_GS and whether it's enhancement or depletion mode, it'd either be a couple of capacitors, or a capacitor and (be still, my beating heart) a resistor from drain to source. Note that I'm not saying it'll be an interesting model. \$\endgroup\$
    – TimWescott
    Commented Oct 24, 2018 at 0:29

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