Detailed explanation of the difference between full wave rectification and bridge rectification circuit

    Rectifier circuits are utilized in many applications, and play an important role in the power supply of electric products and the conversion of AC to DC. The two main types of rectifier circuits are the full wave rectifier and the bridge rectifier, each of which has its own unique properties and advantages.

    A full wave rectifier is a rectifier circuit that utilizes two diodes in a single center-tap configuration to produce an alternating current that has been converted to a direct current. The alternating current is applied to the center-tap of the two diodes, which then pass the current through the circuit in either direction depending on the direction of the input voltage. This type of rectifier provides a full wave (zero-voltage) rectified voltage from a single phase of alternating current.

    A bridge rectifier is a rectifier circuit that utilizes four diodes in a bridge configuration to produce an alternating current that has been converted to a direct current. The alternating current is applied to the four diodes in a bridge configuration, with two diodes conducting current in either direction. This type of rectifier typically provides a full wave (low-voltage) rectified voltage from a single phase of alternating current.

    The main difference between a full wave and a bridge rectifier is that a full wave rectifier requires two inputs, while a bridge rectifier requires four inputs. The full wave rectifier requires two diodes, while the bridge rectifier requires four diodes. Further, the bridge rectifier is typically more efficient than the full wave rectifier as it requires fewer diodes and as such, has fewer losses. As a result, the bridge rectifier is more commonly used in DC power supplies.

    The choice of which rectifier circuit to use depends on the application and the type of AC input that is available. For example, a full wave rectifier is typically more efficient for low-voltage AC inputs, whereas a bridge rectifier is more suited for higher-voltage AC inputs. Additionally, the choice of a rectifier circuit also depends on the level of current that is to be supplied to the DC load.

    The rectifier circuit can also be used as a filtering circuit in many applications. Both full wave and bridge rectifiers can be used as a filter, which can filter out higher frequency signals from the AC input. The filter then allows only the lower frequency signals to be applied to the DC load. The filter can also be used to protect the DC load from interference and sudden voltage or current changes.

    In conclusion, both full wave and bridge rectifiers have their own advantages and disadvantages. The full wave rectifier is more efficient for low-voltage AC inputs and the bridge rectifier is suited for higher-voltage AC inputs. Both types of rectifiers can be used in a variety of applications and can be employed as filters to protect the DC load from interference and sudden changes in current or voltage.