Smoothing of fullwave rectifying circuits

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the configuration of capacitors in full-wave rectifying circuits, specifically addressing the placement of a capacitor in relation to a load resistor. The original poster seeks clarification on why a capacitor should be in parallel rather than in series with the load.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions the impact of placing a capacitor in series versus parallel with a load resistor, particularly regarding the differences in circuit behavior. Some participants explore the implications of a "perfect DC output" and its effect on power dissipation in the resistor.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the behavior of capacitors in the circuit. There is an exploration of the consequences of different configurations, particularly how a series capacitor would affect current flow and power dissipation.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the idealized scenario of a rectifier producing perfect DC output, which raises questions about the assumptions underlying the circuit's operation and the role of smoothing in practical applications.

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Homework Statement


http://s13.postimg.org/l780tdg1z/screenshot_33.png
it's b ii)

Homework Equations


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The Attempt at a Solution


well, I just drew a capacitor in series with the load, but when I looked for the answer it was written that it has to be in parallel, I just wanted to know why?how would it make any difference
thanks in advance :)
 
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Imagine that the rectifier produces perfect DC output, and you had the capacitor in series with the resistor. What would be the steady state power dissipated by the resistor?
 
if you mean by perfect DC output that it doesn't need any smoothing(like the voltage is constant)
I think that there will be no power dissipated by the resistor,because the capacitor is fully charged.is that correct?
 
Yes, that it what I meant. The capacitor in series essentially blocks the DC current.
 
MisterX said:
Yes, that it what I meant. The capacitor in series essentially blocks the DC current.

ahh, ok. thank you very much :)
 
Last edited:

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