The output frequency of a full-wave rectifier, if the input frequency is 60 Hz is
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → \( 120\,\mathrm{Hz} \)
A full-wave rectifier conducts during both half-cycles of the input: each half-cycle gives one output pulse in the same direction. So there are two output pulses in every input cycle, and the output frequency is twice the input frequency.
\( \displaystyle f_{\mathrm{out}} = 2 f_{\mathrm{in}} = 2 \times 60 = 120\,\mathrm{Hz} \)
A half-wave rectifier, which uses only one half-cycle, would give an output of the same frequency as the input, \( 60\,\mathrm{Hz} \).
Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2026 on 18-05-2026 (Slot 2).
NCERT (2026-27):
Application of Junction Diode as a Rectifier – “… The circuit using two diodes, shown in Fig. 14.19(a), gives output rectified voltage corresponding to both the positive as well as negative half of the ac cycle. Hence, it is known as full-wave rectifier.”
Application of Junction Diode as a Rectifier – “… Each diode rectifies only for half the cycle, but the two do so for alternate cycles.”