Physics Electronics MDCAT 2000
PMDC Verified Question 488 of 494
RD1D2V_out

In the circuit shown above, identical ideal diodes \( D_1 \) and \( D_2 \) are connected in parallel with opposite polarities across an AC sinusoidal input voltage \( v(t) = V_m \sin(\omega t) \). What is the waveform of the voltage across the load resistor \( R \)?
A
Half-wave rectified waveform
B
Full-wave rectified unidirectional DC waveform
C
Constant smooth DC level
D
Unrectified AC sinusoidal waveform identical to the input
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option D: Unrectified AC sinusoidal waveform identical to the input
Concept:

When two identical ideal diodes are connected in inverse-parallel (antiparallel), one diode conducts during the positive half-cycle while the other conducts during the negative half-cycle.

Formula:

$$\text{Positive Half-Cycle: } D_1 \text{ ON}, D_2 \text{ OFF} \implies v_R(t) = +V_m \sin(\omega t)$$

$$\text{Negative Half-Cycle: } D_2 \text{ ON}, D_1 \text{ OFF} \implies v_R(t) = -V_m |\sin(\omega t)|$$

Solution:

  • During the positive half-cycle, \( D_1 \) is forward-biased and conducts current through \( R \) from left to right.


  • During the negative half-cycle, \( D_2 \) is forward-biased and conducts current through \( R \) from right to left.


  • Because both half-cycles pass through \( R \) with opposite polarities, no rectification occurs and the output voltage matches the original AC input wave.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: Half-wave rectification blocks one of the half-cycles, which does not happen here because the inverse-parallel diode conducts it.
  • Option B: Full-wave rectification requires current to pass through the load in the same direction on both half-cycles.
  • Option C: A constant DC level requires rectification followed by large smoothing filters.

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