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Question
A student wants to use two p-n junction diodes to convert alternating current into direct current. Draw the labelled circuit diagram she would use and explain how it works.
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Solution
The student will use a full wave rectifier.
Two diodes are used to give rectified O/P corresponding to both positive as well as negative half cycles.

When the voltage at A with respect to the centre tap is positive, and the voltage at B is negative. Then, D1 is forward biased and D2 is reversed biased. Hence, D1 conducts and D2 does not.
When the voltage of A becomes negative, then B becomes + ve. Therefore, D1 does not conduct and D2 conducts. Hence, we obtain output voltage during both the positive as well as negative half of cycle.

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