Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 371 of 494
What is the total conduction angle of the rectifying diode in an ideal half-wave rectifier over a complete \( 360^\circ \) input \( \text{AC} \) cycle?
A
\( 180^\circ \) (or \( \pi \text{ radians} \))
B
\( 90^\circ \) (or \( \frac{\pi}{2} \text{ radians} \))
C
\( 270^\circ \) (or \( \frac{3\pi}{2} \text{ radians} \))
D
\( 360^\circ \) (or \( 2\pi \text{ radians} \))
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: \( 180^\circ \) (or \( \pi \text{ radians} \))
Concept:

The conduction angle is the portion of the input AC cycle (measured in degrees or radians) during which the rectifying element conducts current to the load.

Formula:

$$\theta_{\text{conduction}} = \pi \text{ rad} = 180^\circ \quad (\text{Ideal half-wave rectifier})$$

Solution:

  • An ideal diode conducts during the positive half-cycle, spanning from \( \theta = 0^\circ \) to \( \theta = 180^\circ \).


  • It is reverse-biased and non-conducting throughout the negative half-cycle from \( \theta = 180^\circ \) to \( \theta = 360^\circ \).


  • Therefore, the total conduction angle per cycle is \( 180^\circ \) (or \( \pi \text{ radians} \)).


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option B: \( 90^\circ \) corresponds to a quarter-cycle, which occurs in phase-controlled thyristor circuits rather than uncontrolled diode rectifiers.
  • Option C: \( 270^\circ \) corresponds to three-quarters of a cycle.
  • Option D: \( 360^\circ \) is the total conduction angle of a full-wave rectifier across its active diode pairs.

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