Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 392 of 494
What is the average (\( \text{DC} \)) voltage across the load in an ideal full-wave rectifier supplied by an \( \text{AC} \) source with peak voltage \( V_m \)?
A
\( V_{\text{dc}} = \frac{V_m}{\pi} \)
B
\( V_{\text{dc}} = \frac{V_m}{2} \)
C
\( V_{\text{dc}} = \frac{2 V_m}{\pi} \)
D
\( V_{\text{dc}} = \sqrt{2} V_m \)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: \( V_{\text{dc}} = \frac{2 V_m}{\pi} \)
Concept:

Because a full-wave rectifier conducts during both half-cycles, its average (DC) output voltage is twice that of a half-wave rectifier.

Formula:

$$V_{\text{dc}} = \frac{1}{\pi} \int_0^\pi V_m \sin(\theta) d\theta = \frac{2 V_m}{\pi} \approx 0.636 V_m$$

Solution:

  • In a full-wave rectifier, the waveform repeats every \( \pi \) radians with \( v(t) = V_m \sin(\theta) \).


  • Evaluating the average value:


  • $$V_{\text{dc}} = \frac{1}{\pi} \int_0^\pi V_m \sin(\theta) d\theta = \frac{V_m}{\pi} [-\cos(\theta)]_0^\pi = \frac{V_m}{\pi} (1 - (-1)) = \frac{2 V_m}{\pi}$$


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: \( \frac{V_m}{\pi} \) is the DC output voltage of a half-wave rectifier.
  • Option B: \( \frac{V_m}{2} \) does not represent the DC average of a full-wave rectified sine wave.
  • Option D: \( \sqrt{2} V_m \) exceeds the peak input voltage and is not possible for an unamplified passive rectifier.

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