Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 416 of 494
In a rectifier smoothing filter, an inductor (choke) is connected in series with the load resistor because it:
A
Passes high-frequency AC ripple easily while blocking steady DC
B
Presents high impedance to AC ripple current while offering low resistance to steady DC
C
Eliminates the forward voltage drop of the rectifying diodes
D
Doubles the average DC output voltage across the load
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: Presents high impedance to AC ripple current while offering low resistance to steady DC
Concept:

An inductor opposes changes in current. Its inductive reactance (\( X_L = 2\pi f L \)) increases with frequency, opposing AC ripple while allowing DC to pass with minimal ohmic loss.

Formula:

$$X_L(\text{ac}) = 2\pi f L \gg R_{\text{choke}}, \quad X_L(\text{dc}) = 0\text{ }\Omega$$

Solution:

  • For DC (\( f = 0 \)), inductive reactance is zero (\( X_L = 0 \)), allowing DC current to pass with minimal resistance.


  • For AC ripple frequencies (\( f = 100\text{ Hz} \) or \( 120\text{ Hz} \)), \( X_L \) is large, dropping the ripple voltage across the choke.


  • This reduces the AC ripple reaching the series load resistor.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option A: Inductors block high-frequency AC and pass DC, which is the opposite of the statement.
  • Option C: A passive filter inductor does not alter the semiconductor physics of diode drops.
  • Option D: Inductor filters smooth current waveforms; they do not double output voltage.

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