Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Rectification and smoothing

Rectification and smoothing — practice question

Fig. 6.1 presents a circuit that converts an alternating input voltage $V_{IN}$ into an output voltage $V_{OUT}$ across a resistor $R$. The rectification circuit has four terminals named W, X, Y and Z. A capacitor $C$ is joined in parallel with resistor $R$.
(a(i))[1]

State what rectification means.

(a(ii))[1]

State what the purpose of capacitor $C$ is.

(b(i))[2]

The change of $V_{IN}$ with $t$ can be described by $V_{IN} = A \cos Bt$ where $A$ and $B$ are constants. Find the values of $A$ and $B$. Give a unit with your answer for $A$.

(b(ii))[1]

Determine the kind of rectification that the circuit in Fig. 6.1 produces.

(b(iii))[2]

On Fig. 6.3, draw the circuit diagram for the components that are inside the rectification circuit.

(b(iv))[3]

Determine a value for the time constant of the discharge of capacitor $C$ through resistor $R$ in Fig. 6.1.

(c)[2]

The capacitor $C$ has a capacitance of $570\,\mu\text{F}$. Use the answer from (b)(iv) to find the resistance of resistor $R$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 12-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: conversion of a.c. into d.c.

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