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Difficulty: EasyDirect Current (DC) vs. Alternating Current (AC)

Rechargeable electronic devices store energy in batteries that require direct current (DC) to charge. Which device is specifically designed to convert the alternating current (AC) supplied by a wall outlet into direct current (DC)?

  1. A
    An inverter
  2. A rectifierAnswer
  3. C
    A transformer
  4. D
    An alternator

Answer

A rectifier is the device that converts alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC).
A rectifier is an electrical circuit consisting of diodes that permits current flow in only one direction, transforming bidirectional alternating current (AC) into unidirectional direct current (DC).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the type of incoming electrical supply and the required output format.
The source is alternating current (AC) from a utility outlet, and the target load requires direct current (DC).
Battery charging requires unidirectional current flow (DC), whereas grid power supplies bidirectional oscillating current (AC).
2
Select the electrical conversion device that turns bidirectional AC into unidirectional DC.
A rectifier (typically using semiconductor diodes) accomplishes AC-to-DC conversion.
Diodes conduct current in only one direction, converting the alternating wave into a unidirectional direct current.

Key Concept

Direct current (DC) flows continuously in one direction, whereas alternating current (AC) periodically reverses direction. Conversion from AC to DC is accomplished using a rectifier, while conversion from DC to AC is performed by an inverter.
Estimated Time:40s
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Topics

Direct Current (DC) vs. Alternating Current (AC)

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