Question
What portion of the AC cycle is converted to DC by a full-wave rectifier?
Answer Options
- A) 90 degrees
- B) 180 degrees
- C) 270 degrees
- D) 360 degrees
Correct Answer: D
Explanation
A full-wave rectifier (either a center-tapped or bridge type) is designed to utilize the entire AC input cycle. Unlike a half-wave rectifier, a full-wave circuit ensures that current flows to the load during both the positive and negative halves of the AC cycle.
Therefore, the entire 360^\circ of the AC cycle is converted to DC, resulting in a pulsating DC output that is continuous (no gaps). This provides a much smoother output waveform with a higher fundamental ripple frequency, making it much easier to filter into pure DC compared to a half-wave rectifier.
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