Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 271 of 494
In a bridge full-wave rectifier using practical silicon diodes (each with forward drop \( V_D = 0.70\text{ V} \)) supplied by a secondary peak voltage \( V_m \), the peak voltage across the load resistor is given by:
A
Vload,peak = Vm
B
Vload,peak = Vm - 2VD = Vm - 1.40 V
C
Vload,peak = Vm - VD = Vm - 0.70 V
D
Vload,peak = 2Vm - VD
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: Vload,peak = Vm - 2VD = Vm - 1.40 V
Concept:

In a bridge rectifier, current flows through two conducting diodes in series with the load during each half-cycle, resulting in two diode forward drops (\( 2 V_D = 1.40\text{ V} \)).

Formula:

$$V_{\text{load,peak}} = V_m - 2 V_D = V_m - 2(0.70\text{ V}) = V_m - 1.40\text{ V}$$

Solution:

  • Applying Kirchhoff's Voltage Law around the active conduction loop: \( V_m - V_{D1} - V_{\text{load}} - V_{D2} = 0 \).


  • Because two diodes conduct simultaneously in series, the peak load voltage is \( V_{\text{load,peak}} = V_m - 2V_D = V_m - 1.40\text{ V} \).


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: \( V_m \) applies only to ideal diodes with zero forward voltage drop.
  • Option C: \( V_m - V_D \) is the peak load voltage for a center-tapped full-wave rectifier (which uses one diode per half-cycle).
  • Option D: \( 2V_m - V_D \) is not applicable to standard bridge rectification.

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