What is Rectification? Describe with a circuit diagram the working of a p-n junction diode as half wave rectifier with input and output waveforms.

Explanation

The process of converting ac into dc is called rectification


The diode D in series with a load resistor `R_(L)` is connected to the secondary of the transformer. The ac voltage to be rectified is applied to the primary of the transformer. The secondary of a transformer supplies the desired ac voltage across terminals A and B. The output dc voltage is taken across the load `R_(L)`. Working: During the positive half cycle of input ac voltage, the end A becomes positive with respect to the end B. As a result the diode becomes forward biased and conducts the current. The current flows in the direction `ADR_(L)BA`.
During the negative half cycle of input ac voltage, the end A becomes negative with respect to teh end B. As a result the diode becomes reverse biased and does not conducts the current. Thus the current flows through the diode during positive half cycle only. The current flows through the load `R_(L)` always in the same direction. Hence dc output is obtained.