PHYSICS

INVESTIGATORY PROJECT

FULL WAVE RECTIFIER

 INDEX
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
INTRODUCTION
AIM
MATERIALS REQUIRED
CIRCUIT DIAGRAM
WORKING
GRAPH
APPLICATION
MERITS AND DEMERITS
BIBLOGRAPHY
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The project could have never been possible without the support of various
sources. It is extremely impossible to thank every individual who has helped me in
completing this project. Some people have helped in the basic formularization and
there were sources that helped me in giving the ideas a physical form/shape. I am
extremely grateful to my mentor, ............................................................... , for his
invaluable guidance in the project right from the beginning. His vital support
helped the project to take a logical and suitable shape. I take this opportunity to
thank the School authorities, for extending their full support and cooperation in
the project. Last but not the least; I would like to thank everyone who has offered
a helping hand when required.
INTRODUCTION

A full wave rectifier is a device which is used to rectify all the alternating current
components in an alternating supply and make it purely a direct current. The two
alternating halves of an alternation current are rectified in a full wave rectifier
which is an advantage over a half wave rectifier. Most electronic devices cannot
withstand very high voltage or alternating current due to its intense high power.
The use of batteries in all devices is not practical as their replacement and
durability is a huge problem as the device has to be dismantled each time for such
a replacement. So these rectifiers are used in most of the electronic devices like
TV’s, Radios, Chargers, and Lightings etc.

USES OF FULL WAVE RECTIFIER

1. Identifying the amplitude of modulating radio signals.

2. Providing power supply to devices that require DC voltage, such as LEDs and
motors.
3. Mobile phones, laptops, and charger circuits.
4. Converting AC to DC in UPS systems.
5. Power supplies and battery charging.
The importance of rectification in electronics is multifaceted:
1. Power Conversion: Many electronic devices and circuits require DC power to
operate efficiently. By rectifying AC power from mains or other sources,
rectifiers provide the necessary DC voltage for powering electronic devices
such as computers, televisions, radios, and mobile phones.
2. Signal Processing: In various electronic systems, such as audio amplifiers and
radio receivers, signal processing often requires DC biasing or DC voltage levels.
Rectification is essential for converting AC signals into DC signals, enabling
further processing or amplification.
3. Energy Conversion: In renewable energy systems like solar panels and wind
turbines, AC voltage generated by the alternators needs to be converted into
DC voltage for storage in batteries or for feeding into the grid. Rectification
facilitates this energy conversion process.
4. Motor Control: Some electric motors require DC power for operation.
Rectification is used in motor control circuits to convert AC power from the
mains or motor generators into the required DC voltage to drive the motors
efficiently.
5. Battery Charging: nates the fluctuations associated with AC voltage, providing
a stable power supply for electronic systems.
6. Efficiency in Energy Transfer: DC power transmission and distribution systems
are more efficient compared to AC systems over long distances. Converting AC
to DC is essential for applications such as renewable energy systems (solar
panels, wind turbocharging circuits for batteries, whether in consumer
electronics or electric vehicles, often require rectification to convert AC power
from chargers or power sources into the DC voltage required to charge the
batteries effectively.
7. Power Supplies: Rectifiers are a crucial component in the construction of
power supplies, converting the AC voltage from the mains or transformers into
stable DC voltage levels needed to power electronic devices and circuits.

Overall, rectification plays a pivotal role in enabling the use of electronic

devices and systems by providing the necessary DC power or voltage levels for
their operation, thus making it an indispensable aspect of modern electronics.
The components commonly used in a full-wave rectifier:
1. **Transformer:** The transformer is used to step down or step up the input
voltage to the desired level and to isolate the input from the output circuit. For
a center-tapped full-wave rectifier, a center-tapped transformer is used, while
for a bridge rectifier, a regular transformer without a center tap is used.
2. **Diodes:** Diodes are semiconductor devices that allow current to flow in
only one direction. In a full-wave rectifier, diodes are used to rectify the
alternating current (AC) input into a pulsating direct current (DC) output. For a
center-tapped rectifier, two diodes are used, while for a bridge rectifier, four
diodes are used.
3. **Load Resistor:** The load resistor is connected across the output terminals
of the rectifier circuit. It represents the electrical load that the rectifier is
powering. In practical applications, the load resistor can be replaced with any
electronic device or circuit that requires a DC power supply.
4. **Filter Capacitor (Optional):** In some full-wave rectifier circuits, a filter
capacitor is connected across the output terminals in parallel with the load
resistor. The capacitor helps to reduce the ripple in the output voltage by
storing charge during the peak voltage periods and releasing it during the low
voltage periods. This results in a smoother DC output voltage.
5. **Voltage Regulator (Optional):** In certain applications where a stable and
regulated DC voltage is required, a voltage regulator circuit can be added after
the rectifier stage. The voltage regulator maintains a constant output voltage
regardless of variations in the input voltage or load conditions.

These are the primary components used in a full-wave rectifier circuit. The
specific configuration and additional components may vary depending on the
type of full-wave rectifier (center-tapped or bridge) and the requirements of
the particular application.

Converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) is necessary in various

electronic applications due to several reasons:
1. Compatibility with Electronic Devices: Most electronic devices and circuits
operate on DC power. Converting AC to DC ensures compatibility with the
power requirements of these devices. Whether it's your smartphone, laptop,
television, or any other electronic gadget, they all require DC power to function
properly.
2. Stability of Voltage Levels: DC voltage remains constant over time, whereas AC
voltage fluctuates periodically. Many electronic components and circuits, such
as integrated circuits (ICs), microcontrollers, and sensors, require stable voltage
levels to operate reliably. Converting AC to DC eliminates) and electric vehicles,
where DC power is generated and transmitted efficiently to charging stations
or storage systems.
3. Reduction of Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): AC signals generate
electromagnetic interference (EMI) due to their alternating nature. Converting
AC to DC can help reduce EMI, especially in sensitive electronic circuits where
interference can degrade performance or cause malfunctions.
4. Battery Charging and Energy Storage: Batteries, which are essential
components in many electronic devices and systems, require DC power for
charging and discharging. Converting AC to DC is necessary for charging
batteries efficiently and safely, whether it's in consumer electronics, electric
vehicles, or renewable energy storage systems.
5. Controlled Power Delivery: In applications such as motor control and power
supplies, DC power enables precise control over the speed, torque, and output
voltage of electric motors and electronic circuits. Converting AC to DC
facilitates controlled power delivery, allowing for more efficient and versatile
operation of these systems.
6. Safety Considerations: AC power can pose safety risks due to its alternating
nature and higher voltages. Converting AC to DC reduces the risk of electric
shock and makes electronic devices and systems safer to use, especially in
consumer electronics and household appliances.

Overall, converting AC to DC is essential for powering electronic devices,

ensuring stable operation, improving efficiency, and enabling safe and reliable
performance across a wide range of electronic applications.

Half-wave and full-wave rectifiers are both used to convert alternating current
(AC) to direct current (DC), but they di er in their e ciency and the way they
utilize the AC waveform. Here's how they di er:

1. **Utilization of AC Waveform:**
• **Half-Wave Rectifier**: In a half-wave rectifier, only one-half (either the
positive or negative) of the input AC waveform is utilized for rectification.
During the positive half-cycle of the input AC voltage, the diode conducts and
 allows current flow, resulting in a positive output voltage. However, during the
negative half-cycle, the diode blocks current flow, resulting in no output
voltage.
• **Full-Wave Rectifier**: In a full-wave rectifier, both halves of the input AC
waveform are utilized for rectification. This results in a more efficient
conversion of AC to DC compared to half-wave rectifiers. Full-wave rectifiers
can be further classified into bridge rectifiers and center-tapped rectifiers.

2. **Efficiency:**
• **Half-Wave Rectifier**: Half-wave rectifiers are less efficient compared to
full-wave rectifiers because they only utilize one-half of the input waveform. As
a result, they have higher ripple voltage and lower average output voltage.
• **Full-Wave Rectifier**: Full-wave rectifiers are more efficient because they
utilize both halves of the input waveform, resulting in a smoother DC output
with lower ripple voltage and higher average output voltage.

3. **Output Frequency:**
• **Half-Wave Rectifier**: The output frequency of a half-wave rectifier is the
same as the input frequency because it only rectifies one half of the input
waveform.
• **Full-Wave Rectifier**: The output frequency of a full-wave rectifier is twice
the input frequency because it rectifies both halves of the input waveform.

4. **Diode Configuration:**
• **Half-Wave Rectifier**: A single diode is sufficient for a half-wave rectifier
circuit.
• **Full-Wave Rectifier**:
• **Bridge Rectifier**: A bridge rectifier uses four diodes arranged in a bridge
configuration to rectify the input AC waveform.
• **Center-Tapped Rectifier**: A center-tapped rectifier uses two diodes and a
center-tapped transformer to rectify the input AC waveform.
5. **Output Ripple:**
• **Half-Wave Rectifier**:Half-wave rectifiers produce higher ripple voltage in
the output compared to full-wave rectifiers because they only rectify one half
of the input waveform.
• **Full-Wave Rectifier**: Full-wave rectifiers produce lower ripple voltage in
the output due to the more continuous nature of the rectification process.

In summary, full-wave rectifiers are more efficient and provide smoother DC

output compared to half-wave rectifiers because they utilize both halves of the
input AC waveform for rectification.

Bridge rectifiers and center-tapped rectifiers are two common

configurations of full-wave rectifiers, both serving the purpose of converting
alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). Here's a discussion of each:

1. **Bridge Rectifiers:**
• **Configuration**: A bridge rectifier consists of four diodes arranged in a
bridge configuration. The input AC voltage is connected across two diagonally
opposite corners of the bridge, while the load resistor or circuit is connected
across the other two corners. The diodes are arranged to ensure that current
flows through the load in only one direction, resulting in a full-wave rectified
output across the load.
• **Operation**: During the positive half-cycle of the input AC voltage,
diodes D1 and D2 conduct, allowing current to flow through the load in the
forward direction. Simultaneously, diodes D3 and D4 are reverse-biased and do
not conduct. During the negative half-cycle, diodes D3 and D4 conduct, while
D1 and D2 are reverse-biased. This arrangement ensures that current flows
through the load in the same direction during both half-cycles of the input AC
waveform, producing a full-wave rectified output.
• **Advantages**:
o Simple configuration with fewer components compared to center-tapped
rectifiers.
o Higher efficiency and lower voltage drop compared to center-tapped
rectifiers.
 o Suitable for high-voltage applications due to the absence of a center-
tapped transformer.
• **Disadvantages**:
o Requires four diodes, which may result in slightly higher component cost
compared to center-tapped rectifiers.
o May require a higher voltage rating for the diodes due to the full input
voltage being applied across each diode.

2. **Center-Tapped Rectifiers:**
• **Configuration**: A center-tapped rectifier uses a center-tapped transformer
along with two diodes. The center tap of the transformer secondary winding is
connected to the circuit ground, while the two ends of the secondary winding are
connected to the anodes of the diodes. The load resistor or circuit is connected
across the cathodes of the diodes. This configuration ensures that each diode
conducts during alternate half-cycles of the input AC waveform, resulting in a full-
wave rectified output across the load.
• **Operation**: During the positive half-cycle of the input AC voltage, the
upper diode conducts, allowing current to flow through the load in the forward
direction. Simultaneously, the lower diode is reverse-biased and does not
conduct. During the negative half-cycle, the lower diode conducts, while the
upper diode is reverse-biased. This arrangement ensures that current flows
through the load in the same direction during both half-cycles of the input AC
waveform, producing a full-wave rectified output.
• **Advantages**:
o Requires only two diodes, reducing component cost compared to bridge
rectifiers.
o Suitable for lower voltage applications due to the use of a center-tapped
transformer.
o May offer better voltage regulation compared to bridge rectifiers.
• **Disadvantages**:
o More complex transformer winding required, which may increase
manufacturing cost and size.
 o Typically lower efficiency compared to bridge rectifiers due to higher
voltage drop across the diodes.

In summary, bridge rectifiers and center-tapped rectifiers are both common

configurations of full-wave rectifiers, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
The choice between them depends on factors such as cost, efficiency, voltage
rating, and application requirements.

Bridge rectifiers offer several advantages over center-tapped rectifiers, making

them a preferred choice in many applications:
1. **Higher Efficiency**: Bridg2. **Simpler Construction**: Bridge rectifiers have
a simpler construction compared to center-tapped rectifiers. They require only
four diodes arranged in a bridge configuration, whereas center-tapped
rectifiers require a center-tapped transformer along with two diodes. The
simpler construction of bridge rectifiers reduces component count, assembly
complexity, and manufacturing cost.
2. **No Requirement for a Center-Tapped Transformer**: Bridge rectifiers do
not require a center-tapped transformer, unlike center-tapped rectifiers. This
simplifies the design and eliminates the need for specialized transformers with
a center tapped secondary winding. As a result, bridge rectifiers are more
versatile and can be easily integrated into various electronic circuits and
systems without the need for specific transformer configurations.
3. **Higher Voltage Ratings**: Bridge rectifiers can handle higher voltage ratings
compared to center tapped rectifiers. Since each diode in a bridge rectifier is
subjected to the full input voltage, the diodes must be rated for the full input
voltage. However, in a center-tapped rectifier, each diode is only subjected to
half of the input voltage, allowing for the use of diodes with lower voltage
ratings. This makes bridge rectifiers suitable for high-voltage applications
where center-tapped rectifiers may not be feasible.
4. **Reduced Size and Weight**: Due to their simpler construction and
elimination of the center-tapped transformer, bridge rectifiers are typically
smaller and lighter than center-tapped rectifiers. This makes them ideal for
applications where space and weight are critical considerations, such as in
portable electronic devices, power supplies, and automotive electronics.
 Overall, bridge rectifiers offer higher efficiency, simpler construction, versatility,
and suitability for high-voltage applications compared to center tapped rectifiers.
These advantages make bridge rectifiers a popular choice in a wide range of
electronic circuits and systems where efficient AC to DC conversion is required.

Bridge rectifiers and center-tapped rectifiers are two common configurations

of full-wave rectifiers, both serving the purpose of converting alternating current
(AC) into direct current (DC).

1. **Bridge Rectifiers**:
• **Configuration**: A bridge rectifier consists of four diodes arranged in a
bridge or diamond shape. The input AC voltage source is connected across two
diagonally opposite corners of the bridge, while the load resistor or circuit is
connected across the other two corners.
• **Operation**: During the positive half-cycle of the input AC voltage, two of
the diodes conduct, allowing current to flow through the load in one direction.
During the negative half-cycle, the other two diodes conduct, maintaining the
flow of current through the load in the same direction. This arrangement
ensures full-wave rectification.

2. **Center-Tapped Rectifiers**:
• **Configuration**: A center-tapped rectifier uses a center-tapped
transformer along with two diodes. The center tap of the transformer
secondary winding is connected to the circuit ground, while the two ends of
the secondary winding are connected to the anodes of the diodes. The load
resistor or circuit is connected across the cathodes of the diodes.
• **Operation**: During each half-cycle of the input AC voltage, one of the
diodes conducts, allowing current to flow through the load in one direction.
The center tap of the transformer ensures that the current flows through the
load in the same direction during both half-cycles, resulting in full-wave
rectification.
• **Advantages**:
• Lower voltage drop across diodes compared to bridge rectifiers.
• Suitable for lower voltage applications.
• Better voltage regulation due to the use of a center-tapped transformer.
 • **Disadvantages**:
oRequires a center-tapped transformer, which adds complexity and cost.
oLower efficiency compared to bridge rectifiers.
In summary, bridge rectifiers offer simpler construction, higher efficiency, and
versatility, while center-tapped rectifiers provide better voltage regulation and
lower voltage drop across diodes. The choice between them depends on factors
such as cost, efficiency, voltage requirements, and space constraints in the specific
application.

Analysis the output waveform of a full-wave rectifier compared to the input AC

waveform and half-wave rectified waveform:

1. **Input AC Waveform**:
• The input AC waveform is typically a sinusoidal waveform oscillating between
positive and negative voltage levels.
• During each half-cycle of the input waveform, the voltage rises from zero to a
positive peak, then falls back to zero, and finally reaches a negative peak
before returning to zero again.
• The frequency of the input AC waveform corresponds to the frequency of the
power source, such as mains electricity (usually 50 or 60 Hz).

2. **Half-Wave Rectified Waveform**:

• In a half-wave rectifier, only one half of the input AC waveform is utilized. For
instance, let's consider rectifying the positive half-cycle.
• During the positive half-cycle of the input waveform, the diode conducts,
allowing current to flow in one direction through the load resistor or circuit.
• As a result, the output waveform resembles a clipped version of the positive
half-cycle of the input waveform. The negative half-cycle is essentially
removed, resulting in a pulsating DC waveform with gaps between each pulse.
• The frequency of the output waveform remains the same as the input AC
waveform, but the amplitude is reduced due to the voltage drop across the
diode.

3. **Full-Wave Rectified Waveform**:

• In a full-wave rectifier, both halves of the input AC waveform are utilized. This
results in a more efficient conversion of AC to DC compared to half-wave
rectification.
• During each half-cycle of the input waveform, two diodes conduct alternately,
allowing current to flow in the same direction through the load resistor or
circuit.
• As a result, the output waveform resembles a smoothed version of the input
AC waveform, with both positive and negative half-cycles present. The negative
half-cycle is inverted to produce a positive output, resulting in a continuous
pulsating DC waveform with reduced ripple compared to half-wave
rectification.
• The frequency of the output waveform remains twice that of the input AC
waveform, as both positive and negative half-cycles are rectified.

4. **Comparison**:
• The output waveform of a full-wave rectifier is smoother and more continuous
compared to that of a half-wave rectifier.
• Both positive and negative half-cycles of the input AC waveform contribute to
the output waveform in a full-wave rectifier, resulting in higher efficiency and
reduced ripple.
• Compared to the input AC waveform, both half-wave and full-wave rectified
waveforms have a higher average voltage level, although the full-wave rectified
waveform approaches closer to the peak voltage of the input AC waveform.

In summary, a full-wave rectifier produces a smoother, continuous pulsating DC

waveform compared to a half-wave rectifier, utilizing both halves of the input AC
waveform for rectification. This results in higher efficiency and reduced ripple in
the output waveform.
Ripple voltage
Ripple voltage refers to the small fluctuations or variations in the output voltage of
a DC power supply that occurs due to incomplete smoothing of the rectified AC
waveform. In other words, it represents the AC component superimposed on top
of the DC voltage in the output of a rectifier circuit. Ripple voltage is typically
expressed as a percentage of the DC output voltage or as a peak-to-peak voltage
value.

The significance of ripple voltage in DC power supplies lies in its potential to a ect
the performance and reliability of electronic devices and circuits. Here are some
key points regarding its significance:

1. **Stability of DC Output**: Electronic devices often require a stable and

constant DC voltage for proper operation. Ripple voltage can cause fluctuations in
the output voltage, leading to instability in electronic circuits. High levels of ripple
voltage can result in improper functioning or damage to sensitive electronic
components.

2. **Effect on Signal Integrity**: In circuits where the DC voltage serves as a

reference or bias voltage, ripple voltage can introduce noise and distortion into
signals, affecting the integrity of data transmission or signal processing.
Minimizing ripple voltage is essential for maintaining signal fidelity in
communication and audio applications.

3. **Impact on Efficiency**: Ripple voltage represents wasted energy in the form

of AC components that are not utilized by the load. High ripple voltage results in
lower overall efficiency of the power supply, as more power is dissipated as heat
in the load resistor or circuit components.

4. **Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)**: Ripple voltage can contribute to

electromagnetic interference (EMI) in electronic systems. AC components in the
output voltage can radiate electromagnetic energy, potentially causing
interference with nearby electronic devices or communication systems.
Minimizing ripple voltage helps reduce EMI emissions and ensures compliance
with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards.
Peak Inverse voltage
PIV stands for Peak Inverse Voltage. It refers to the maximum reverse voltage that
a diode in a rectifier circuit can withstand without breaking down or becoming
damaged. In other words, PIV is the maximum voltage that can be applied across
the diode in the reverse-biased direction without causing it to conduct current in
the reverse direction.

The importance of PIV in rectifier circuits lies in ensuring the reliable and
safe operation of the diodes, especially during the negative half-cycles of the input
AC voltage. If the reverse voltage across a diode exceeds its PIV rating, it can lead
to breakdown and permanent damage to the diode. Therefore, selecting diodes
with a PIV rating higher than the maximum reverse voltage encountered in the
circuit is essential to prevent diode failure.

In bridge rectifiers and center-tapped rectifiers, the PIV requirements and

variations differ due to differences in the circuit configuration:
1. **Bridge Rectifiers**:
• In a bridge rectifier, each diode is subjected to the full peak voltage of the
input AC waveform during the reverse-biased half-cycle. This is because the
bridge configuration allows the full voltage across the input terminals to be
applied across each diode.
• Therefore, the PIV rating of each diode in a bridge rectifier should be at least
equal to or greater than the peak voltage of the input AC waveform to prevent
diode breakdown.
2. **Center-Tapped Rectifiers**:
• In a center-tapped rectifier, the two diodes conduct alternately during each
half-cycle of the input AC waveform. Each diode is subjected to only half of the
peak voltage of the input AC waveform during the reverse-biased half-cycle.
• Therefore, the PIV rating of each diode in a center tapped rectifier can be half
of the peak voltage of the input AC waveform.

In summary, PIV is an important parameter in rectifier circuits to ensure the

proper selection and reliable operation of diodes. In bridge rectifiers, each diode
must have a PIV rating equal to or greater than the peak voltage of the input AC
waveform, while in center-tapped rectifiers, the PIV rating can be half of the peak
voltage. Proper consideration of PIV helps prevent diode breakdown and ensures
the safety and longevity of rectifier circuits.

Designing full-wave rectifiers involves several key considerations to ensure

efficient and reliable operation. Here are the key design considerations along
with guidelines for component selection, load requirements, and heat
dissipation:
1. **Component Selection**:
• **Diodes**: Choose diodes with a suitable forward current rating (IF), reverse
voltage rating (PIV), and forward voltage drop (VF). Higher IF and PIV ratings
ensure that the diodes can handle the current and voltage levels encountered
in the circuit, while lower VF reduces power losses.
• **Transformer**: Select a transformer with an appropriate turn ratio to match
the desired output voltage and current requirements. The transformer should
also have sufficient voltage and current ratings to handle the input AC voltage
and load current.
• **Capacitor**: Choose a capacitor with a suitable capacitance value to achieve
the desired ripple voltage level. The capacitor should also have a sufficient
voltage rating to handle the peak voltage across the load.

2. **Load Requirements**:
• Determine the DC output voltage and current requirements of the load. This
will dictate the transformer turns ratio and capacitor capacitance needed to
achieve the desired output voltage and ripple voltage level.
• Ensure that the load impedance is within the acceptable range for the rectifier
circuit to maintain stable operation and minimize voltage drop across the load.
3. **Heat Dissipation**:
• Diodes in the rectifier circuit may dissipate heat due to forward voltage drop
and forward current flow. Use diodes with a low forward voltage drop and
ensure proper heat sinking or cooling to dissipate heat efficiently.
• Consider using diodes with built-in heat-sinks or mounting them on a heat sink
to enhance thermal dissipation and prevent overheating.

By carefully considering these design considerations and selecting appropriate

component values, full-wave rectifiers can be designed to meet the specific
requirements of various applications while ensuring efficient and reliable
operation.
AIM
To construct a full wave rectifier and show that that Alternating Current is rectified
into a Direct Current.

MATERIALS REQUIRED

• Connecting wires
• A plug
• Single lead wire - 2m
• 3 nuts & Bolts 2 to 3cm length
• Circuit board
• A Transformer
• A capacitor
• A Resistor (1 KΩ)
• P-N junction diodes
• A LED
• Insulation tape, Blades, soldering wax, soldering lead, soldering iron & sand
paper.
CIRCUIT DIAGRAM

Connection Details/ Procedure

Connections are done as in the circuit. The A.C. supply is given to both the input
wires of the transformer and the two ends of the secondary coil is given to the P
side of the two diodes and the N side of the diodes are twined and then
connected to one end of the capacitor and the other end to the center tap lead
and to the resistor. Further, the other end of capacitor with the diode connect ion
is connected to the other end of the resistor. Connect 2 leads on both the ends of
the resistor to measure the output and this is connected to the +ve & -ve
terminals of the bulb.
WORKING
1st when the A.C. is supplied to the transformer, it steps down the 230V main
supply to 6 volts. It has a capability of delivering a current of 500mA. The 6 volts
A.C. appearing across the secondary is the RMS value and the peak value is 8.4
volts. During the 1st half cycle of the A.C. input Diode D1is forward biased and a
current ‘I’ flows in the circuit in the direction S1D1 ABEOS1. During this time diode
D2 is reverse biased. So it does not conduct any electric current. During the next
half cycle the diode D is forward and D1 is reversed. Hence D2 conducts current in
the direction S2D2 ABEOS2 and D1does not conduct any current. In subsequent
half cycles of the A.C current the above processes are repeated. In both the half
cycles it is clear that current flows through the resistor in only one direction ABE.
Even though the voltage across RL is unidirectional it will still contain a few A.C
components. This is filtered and made smooth using capacitor, which filters 99%
of the A.C current .A resistor is then used to adjust the output voltage . Capacitor
also nearly filters all A.C components from the supply and resistance is adjusted
for the required output. As this is a simple circuit, only one capacitor and a
resistance are being used. But there will be slight factor of A.C. current still left in
the output but it is negligible. The output Direct Current and voltage light up the
LED
BIBLIOGRAPHY

• Physics-class XII Text Book, NCERT

• Encyclopedia
• Modern’s ABC of physics
• LABORTORY MANNUAL OF PHYSICS (Universal publications