Physics Electronics MDCAT 2000
PMDC Verified Question 489 of 494
+Vm+Vm0V (Gap)t

The voltage waveform shown above represents the unfiltered output of which type of circuit?
A
Full-wave bridge rectifier
B
Pure DC battery supply
C
Symmetrical AC inverter
D
Half-wave rectifier
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option D: Half-wave rectifier
Concept:

A half-wave rectifier passes current during one half-cycle and blocks current during the other, producing an output of positive voltage pulses separated by zero-voltage gaps.

Formula:

$$v_{\text{out}}(t) = \begin{cases} V_m \sin(\omega t) & 0 \le \omega t < \pi \\ 0 & \pi \le \omega t < 2\pi \end{cases}$$

Solution:

  • The waveform shows conduction during the positive half-cycle followed by zero output during the negative half-cycle.


  • This periodic pattern with zero-voltage gaps is the signature of half-wave rectification.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: Full-wave rectifiers produce continuous pulses without zero-voltage gaps.
  • Option B: Pure DC is a flat, continuous horizontal line.
  • Option C: Symmetrical AC alternates between positive and negative polarities.

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