Distinguish between half-wave and full-wave rectifiers.

Half-wave rectifier: (i) The rectified output is for only half of the ac cycle. (ii) One diode is used for rectification. (iii) Secondary of the transformer supplies the input across the two terminals of a diode along with a load. (iv) The output is taken across the load connected in series with the diode. Full-wave rectifier(centre-tapped rectifier): (i) The rectified output is for the complete ac cycle i.e. positive as well as the negative half. (ii) Two diodes are used and each rectifies in the alternate half cycle. (iii) The input by the secondary of a transformer is provided at the two terminals connected to the p - side of the two diodes. (iv) The output is taken between the centre tap of the transformer and the common terminal of the n - sides of two diodes.

What is rectification? Explain the working of a full wave rectifier.

The conversion of alternating current into the direct current is called rectification. Diodes are used for rectification because they allow the unidirectional flow of current. Diodes conduct only when they are forward biased. When two diodes are used in a circuit we get the output voltage during the positive and negative half cycles of the input ac voltage. The circuit for a full-wave rectifier is shown below: For a full-wave rectifier, the secondary of a transformer is provided with a centre-tapping. The p - side of two diodes is connected to the two ends of the secondary of a transformer. The n - side of the diodes are connected together and the output is taken between the common point of diodes and the midpoint of the secondary transformer. We know that a diode conducts when it is forward biased. When A is positive, the diode D 1 conducts and when B is positive then D 2 conducts. Each diode rectifies only for half of the cycle, but the two do it for alternate half cycles. Thus, the output between their common terminal and the centre-tap of the transformer becomes a full-wave rectifier output. The input and output signal of a full-wave rectifier is shown below.