Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 205 of 494
In a half-wave rectifier using a silicon diode with forward knee voltage \( V_D \) supplied by an AC voltage \( v(t) = V_m \sin(\theta) \), the diode conducts over what angle \( \theta_{\text{cond}} \) during the positive half-cycle?
A
π - 2 sin^-1(VD / Vm)
B
π rad (180°) exactly
C
2π rad (360°)
D
sin^-1(VD / Vm)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: π - 2 sin^-1(VD / Vm)
Concept:

A practical diode begins conducting only when the input voltage exceeds the forward cut-in threshold \( V_D \) (at angle \( \theta_1 = \sin^{-1}(V_D / V_m) \)) and stops conducting when the voltage falls back below \( V_D \) (at angle \( \theta_2 = \pi - \theta_1 \)).

Formula:

$$\theta_1 = \sin^{-1}\left(\frac{V_D}{V_m}\right), \quad \theta_2 = \pi - \theta_1$$

$$\theta_{\text{cond}} = \theta_2 - \theta_1 = \pi - 2\theta_1 = \pi - 2\sin^{-1}\left(\frac{V_D}{V_m}\right)$$

Solution:

  • The diode remains OFF at the start of the cycle until \( V_m \sin\theta \ge V_D \).


  • It turns off before the end of the half-cycle once \( V_m \sin\theta < V_D \).


  • Subtracting the two non-conducting intervals (\( \theta_1 \) at each end) gives a total conduction angle of \( \pi - 2\sin^{-1}(V_D / V_m) \).


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option B: \( \pi \) (\( 180^\circ \)) applies only to an ideal diode with zero threshold voltage (\( V_D = 0 \)).
  • Option C: \( 2\pi \) corresponds to full-period continuous conduction.
  • Option D: \( \sin^{-1}(V_D / V_m) \) is the turn-on delay angle, not the total conduction interval.

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