Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 116 of 494
To convert a pulsating DC voltage from a rectifier into a smooth, steady DC output voltage, a filter capacitor must be connected:
A
In series with the AC primary coil
B
In series with the rectifying diode
C
In parallel across the load resistor
D
In parallel with the AC transformer primary
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: In parallel across the load resistor
Concept:

A shunt capacitor filter charges to the peak voltage \( V_m \) during conduction and slowly discharges through the load resistance \( R_L \) between peaks, reducing voltage fluctuations.

Formula:

$$V_{\text{ripple}} = \frac{I_{\text{dc}}}{2 f C} = \frac{V_{\text{dc}}}{2 f R_L C} \quad (\text{for full-wave})$$

Solution:

  • The capacitor is connected in parallel (shunt) with the load resistor \( R_L \).


  • It provides a low-impedance path to ground for AC ripple frequencies while blocking DC, delivering a smoothed DC voltage across \( R_L \).


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: A series primary capacitor acts as a capacitive reactance dropper, not a DC filter.
  • Option B: Connecting a capacitor in series with the diode blocks the DC output current entirely.
  • Option D: A capacitor across the transformer primary only provides AC power factor correction.

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