NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

What type of rectifier uses four diodes to convert AC to DC?

1. Half wave rectifier

2. Full wave bridge

3. Full wave center tap

4. Single phase rectifier

The correct answer is: Full wave bridge

A full wave bridge rectifier employs four diodes arranged in a specific configuration to effectively convert alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). This arrangement allows the rectifier to utilize both halves of the AC waveform, which enhances efficiency and reduces ripple voltage compared to half wave rectifiers that only utilize one half of the AC cycle. In a full wave bridge rectifier, during the positive half-cycle of the AC input, two of the diodes conduct current, allowing the voltage to pass through to the load in the same direction. When the input voltage switches to the negative half-cycle, the other two diodes become conductive, again directing the current through the load in the same direction. This continuous conversion process results in a smoother DC output, which is especially beneficial for powering devices requiring stable voltage. Other rectifying options, such as half wave rectifiers and full wave center tap configurations, do not make use of all four diodes. Half wave rectifiers only allow one half of the AC cycle to pass through, leading to greater ripple and less efficiency. Full wave center tap configurations utilize two diodes and require a center tap transformer, limiting their application compared to the more versatile and commonly used bridge rectifier. Single phase rectifiers is a broader