Which of the following is necessary to use to achieve half wave rectification of an alternating current?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → A diode
Rectification means turning alternating current into current in one direction only. A p-n junction diode conducts when it is forward biased and blocks when it is reverse biased, so placed in series with a load it passes only one half of every cycle.
NCERT (2026-27):
Application of Junction Diode as a Rectifier – “… If an alternating voltage is applied across a diode in series with a load, a pulsating voltage will appear across the load only during the half cycles of the ac input during which the diode is forward biased. Such rectifier circuit, as shown in Fig. 14.18, is called a half-wave rectifier.”
