Question:medium
If an alternating voltage is applied across a p-n junction diode in series with a load then
If an alternating voltage is applied across a p-n junction diode in series with a load then
Show Hint
A single diode rectifier gives pulsating DC, not steady DC.
Updated On: May 14, 2026
- no voltage appears across load.
- a pulsating voltage appears across load.
- an a.c. voltage appears across load.
- a d.c. voltage appears across load which is not pulsating.
Show Solution
The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A diode is a device that allows current to flow in only one direction (rectification). When AC is applied, it acts as a half-wave rectifier.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. During the positive half-cycle of the AC input, the diode is forward-biased and conducts current to the load.
2. During the negative half-cycle, the diode is reverse-biased and blocks the current.
The resulting voltage across the load consists of only the positive half-cycles of the original AC wave. This is a unidirectional voltage (DC) but it varies in magnitude from zero to peak. This is described as a "pulsating" voltage.
Step 3: Final Answer:
A pulsating voltage appears across the load.
A diode is a device that allows current to flow in only one direction (rectification). When AC is applied, it acts as a half-wave rectifier.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. During the positive half-cycle of the AC input, the diode is forward-biased and conducts current to the load.
2. During the negative half-cycle, the diode is reverse-biased and blocks the current.
The resulting voltage across the load consists of only the positive half-cycles of the original AC wave. This is a unidirectional voltage (DC) but it varies in magnitude from zero to peak. This is described as a "pulsating" voltage.
Step 3: Final Answer:
A pulsating voltage appears across the load.
Was this answer helpful?
0
Top Questions on P-N Junction
- Consider the following statements A and B and identify the correct answer:
A. For a solar-cell, the I-V characteristics lies in the IV quadrant of the given graph.
B. In a reverse biased pn junction diode, the current measured in (µA), is due to majority charge carriers.- NEET (UG) - 2024
- Physics
- P-N Junction
- When a potential difference V is applied across a wire of resistance R, it dissipates energy at a rate W. If the wire is cut into two halves and these halves are connected mutually parallel across the same supply, the same supply, the energy dissipation rate will become:
- JEE Main - 2024
- Physics
- P-N Junction
- Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R.
Assertion A: Diffusion current in a p-n junction is greater than the drift current in magnitude if the junction is forward biased.
Reason R: Diffusion current in a p-n junction is from the n-side to the p-side if the junction is forward biased.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below- JEE Main - 2023
- Physics
- P-N Junction
- In the circuit shown below, maximum Zener diode current will be ________ mA.
- JEE Main - 2022
- Physics
- P-N Junction
- Want to practice more? Try solving extra ecology questions todayView All Questions