Concept: A full-wave rectifier converts both halves of an AC input into pulsating DC output using p–n junction diodes. It provides higher efficiency than a half-wave rectifier.

Circuit Diagram (Centre-tapped full-wave rectifier): Components:
Centre-tapped transformer
Two diodes \( D_1, D_2 \)
Load resistor \( R_L \)
Connections:
Anodes of diodes connected to the ends of secondary winding
Cathodes joined together and connected to load
Centre tap connected to other end of load
Working: Positive half cycle:
Upper end of secondary becomes positive
Diode \( D_1 \) forward biased → conducts
Diode \( D_2 \) reverse biased → off
Current flows through \( R_L \) in one direction
Negative half cycle:
Lower end of secondary becomes positive
\( D_2 \) conducts, \( D_1 \) off
Current again flows through load in same direction
Thus, both halves of AC are rectified → full-wave rectification. Input–Output Waveforms: Input waveform:
Sinusoidal AC wave
Positive and negative halves symmetric
Output waveform:
Both halves appear positive
Pulsating DC with double frequency of input
Graph description:
Input: sine wave about zero axis
Output: series of positive humps (no negative portion)
Key Features:
Output frequency = \( 2f \)
Higher efficiency than half-wave rectifier
Less ripple
Extrinsic semiconductors are made by doping pure or intrinsic semiconductors with suitable impurity. There are two types of dopants used in doping, Si or Ge, and using them p-type and n-type semiconductors can be obtained. A p-n junction is the basic building block of many semiconductor devices. Two important processes occur during the formation of a p-n junction: diffusion and drift. When such a junction is formed, a ’depletion layer’ is created consisting of immobile ion-cores. This is responsible for a junction potential barrier. The width of a depletion layer and the height of potential barrier changes when a junction is forward-biased or reverse-biased. A semiconductor diode is basically a p-n junction with metallic contacts provided at the ends for application of an external voltage. Using diodes, alternating voltages can be rectified.