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# Rectifier

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A rectifier is a device that can convert Alternating current (AC) to Direct current (DC). This is a process called rectification. Many rectifiers in the 20th century were made of metals like copper, iron, and silver.[1] Nowadays most are semiconductors.

Half-wave rectifiers only have one side of a waveform, while the full-wave rectifiers use both sides of a waveform. The left-hand side of the full-wave rectifier circuit consists of four diodes: a diode bridge. Half-wave current is a current that can only flow in alternate current, a full-wave current can flow both alternating current and direct current. [2]

Diode bridge, a full wave rectifier

Diode bridge is electrical circuit that consists of four diodes. It acts as a full wave rectifier to convert alternating current to direct current.

## References

1. "What is a Rectifier Circuit?". Michael Lemmon. 2009-02-01. Retrieved 20 May 2012.
2. Patrick Hoppe. "Half-Wave Rectifier". Retrieved 20 May 2012.