Question

With the help of neat labelled circuit diagram explain the working of half wave rectifier using semiconductor diode. Draw the input and output waveforms.

Answer 1

Working : Due to alternating voltage $V_l$, the $p$-region of the diode becomes alternatively positive and negative with respect to the $n$-region.
During the half cycle when the $p$-region is positive, the diode is forward biased and conducts. A current $I_L$ passes through the load resistance $R_L$ in the direction shown.
During the next half cycle, when the $p$-region is negative, the diode is reverse biased and the forward current drops to zero.
Thus the diode conducts only during an half of the input cycle and thus acts as a half wave rectifier.