5.

ELECTRONICS
Rectification
 A semiconductor diode can be used to convert alternating current to direct current. This
process is called Rectification.
 The diode used in this way is called a diode.

 For one-half (1/2) of a cycle, X is positive and Y is negative. The diode is forward bias and
current therefore flows through the load, RL. (See 1st graph above)
 For the other half of the cycle, X is negative and Y is positive. The diode is reversed bias
and no current flows through the load, RL.
 The alternating current is therefore converted to a varying direct current. This form of
rectification shown in the 2nd graph above is half wave rectification.
 Note: That the rectified potential difference is a varying potential difference and not a
steady d.c. as that obtained from a battery.

 Diodes must be checked before used in circuits. If similar currents are recorded in both
directions, then the diode is defective.
Logic Gates

 Logic Gates are circuits in which transistors act as high speed switches. They are used in
digital watches, calculators, computers, industrial control systems, telecommunication etc.
 The outputs and inputs of logic gates involves only 2 levels of voltage :
High or Low OR
Logic 1 or Logic 0 OR
1 or 0
 The output of a logic gate depends upon the input of which there are usually more than 1.
 If there are n inputs, then the number of possible combinations to the input is 2n.
 The behavior of a logic gate may be summed up in a truth table which shows the outputs
for all possible inputs.
 PRACTICE QUESTIONS
Attempt the questions below