Half Wave Rectifier Explained - power electronics

The video tutorial explains the function of diodes as semiconductor devices that allow current to flow in one direction, making them useful for controlling current direction in circuits. It demonstrates how diodes work with AC supplies, creating a half-wave rectifier that blocks half of the sine wave. Practical demonstrations show the effect of diodes on lamp brightness and waveform patterns. The tutorial concludes with methods to improve DC output using capacitors and full-wave rectifiers.

What is the primary function of a diode in a circuit?

• To allow current to flow in both directions

• To increase current flow

• To decrease voltage

• To allow current to flow in only one direction

In an AC circuit, what happens when a diode is used?

• The voltage is increased

• The current flows in both directions

• The current is completely blocked

• The current flows in one direction, creating a pulsating waveform

What is a half-wave rectifier?

• A device that converts DC to AC

• A device that allows full AC waveforms

• A circuit that blocks both halves of the AC waveform

• A circuit that allows only one half of the AC waveform to pass

Why is a lamp with a diode dimmer than one without in an AC circuit?

• The diode allows more current to pass

• The diode decreases the resistance

• The diode blocks half of the AC waveform

• The diode increases the voltage

What can be added to a circuit to improve the DC output when using diodes?

• A resistor in series

• A transformer in parallel

• An inductor in series

• A capacitor in parallel