How is Alternating Current converted into Direct Current?

Alternating current (AC) can be converted into direct current (DC) using a device called a rectifier. Rectifiers are electronic circuits that allow current to flow in one direction while blocking it in the opposite direction. The simplest form of rectifier is a diode rectifier, which uses one or more diodes to convert AC to pulsating DC.

Rectifiers are of two types: half-wave rectifiers and full-wave rectifiers. Full-wave rectifiers are more efficient as they utilize both halves of the AC waveform. The detailed description of conversion of AC to DC is given below:

• Diodes: Diodes are electronic components that conduct electricity in one direction and block it in the opposite direction. In a rectifier circuit, diodes are arranged in such a way that they only allow current to flow in the desired direction only.

• Half-Wave Rectification: In its simplest form, a rectifier circuit can consist of just one diode. The diode allows current to flow when the AC input voltage is positive. When the AC input voltage becomes negative, the diode blocks the current flow. As a result, only the positive half of the AC waveform is allowed to pass through, and the negative half is effectively removed. This process is called half-wave rectification.

• Full-Wave Rectification: To make better use of the input AC waveform, full-wave rectification is often employed. This can be achieved using a bridge rectifier circuit, which consists of four diodes arranged in a specific configuration known as a bridge. In this setup, both the positive and negative halves of the AC waveform are rectified, resulting in a smoother DC output.

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Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) are two fundamental types of electrical currents. These currents differ primarily in the direction of the flow of electric charge. Direct Current (DC) flows continuously in one direction from the positive terminal to the negative terminal of a voltage source. Alternating Current (AC), on the other hand, reverses direction periodically.

In this article, we learn more about AC and DC current and how they are different from each other.