Question

Compare features of p-type and n-type semiconductors. Draw circuit diagram of half-wave rectifier of p-n junction diode and explain it. 
 

Hint:

A half-wave rectifier only uses one half-cycle of AC input, leading to high ripple content in the output. A capacitor filter can be used to smooth the output voltage.

Answer 1

 

Explanation of Half-Wave Rectifier: 
1. Working Principle: A half-wave rectifier converts AC voltage into pulsating DC using a single p-n junction diode. 
2. Positive Half Cycle: During the positive half-cycle of AC input, the diode is forward biased and allows current to flow through the load resistor (\( R_L \)). 
3. Negative Half Cycle: During the negative half-cycle, the diode is reverse biased and blocks current flow, resulting in no output. 
4. Output Waveform: The output consists of only the positive half-cycles of the AC input, producing a pulsating DC voltage.